Incomplete Combustion of Methane

2CH4 + 3O2 → 2CO + 4H2O

Übersicht

When methane burns in insufficient oxygen, carbon monoxide forms instead of carbon dioxide. This incomplete combustion is dangerous because CO is a toxic, odorless gas. Poorly ventilated gas appliances can produce CO, leading to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Teilnehmer

Rolle Substanz Koeffizient Zustand
Reaktant Methane CH₄ 2 (g)
Reaktant Oxygen O 3 (g)
Produkt Carbon Monoxide CO 2 (g)
Produkt Water H₂O 4 (l)

Alltägliches Beispiel

Carbon monoxide detectors in homes protect against this reaction occurring in gas furnaces, water heaters, and stoves with poor ventilation.

Industrielle Bedeutung

Steam reforming of methane (controlled incomplete combustion) is the primary industrial method for hydrogen production, producing syngas (CO + H2).

Eigenschaften

Typ
Combustion
Reversibel
Nein
Energie
Exotherm
ΔH
-1214,0 kJ/mol

Verwandte Reaktionen

Combustion of Carbon Monoxide Combustion of Ethane Combustion of Ethylene Combustion of Glycerol Combustion of Methanol Combustion of Propane Combustion of Ethanol Combustion of Phenol Combustion of Naphthalene Combustion of Benzene

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Incomplete Combustion of Methane?
The balanced equation is: 2CH₄ + 3O₂ → 2CO + 4H₂O.
What type of reaction is Incomplete Combustion of Methane?
Incomplete Combustion of Methane is a combustion reaction.
Is Incomplete Combustion of Methane exothermic or endothermic?
Incomplete Combustion of Methane is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -1214.0 kJ/mol.