Incomplete Combustion of Methane

2CH4 + 3O2 → 2CO + 4H2O

Aperçu

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.

Participants

Rôle Substance Coefficient État
Réactif Methane CH₄ 2 (g)
Réactif Oxygen O 3 (g)
Produit Carbon Monoxide CO 2 (g)
Produit Water H₂O 4 (l)

Exemple du quotidien

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

Importance industrielle

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

Propriétés

Type
Combustion
Réversible
Non
Énergie
Exothermique
ΔH
-1214,0 kJ/mol

Réactions associées

Combustion of Carbon Monoxide Combustion of Ethylene Combustion of Glycerol Combustion of Methanol Combustion of Phenol Combustion of Naphthalene Combustion of Methane Combustion of Octane (Gasoline) Combustion of Hydrogen Gas 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.