Formation of Carbon Monoxide
2C + O2 → 2CO
Overview
When carbon burns in a limited supply of oxygen, carbon monoxide is produced instead of carbon dioxide. This incomplete combustion reaction is dangerous because carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and highly toxic gas that binds to hemoglobin more strongly than oxygen.
Participants
| Role | Substance | Coefficient | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reactant | Oxygen O | 1 | (g) |
| Reactant | Carbon C | 2 | (s) |
| Product | Carbon Monoxide CO | 2 | (g) |
Everyday Example
Carbon monoxide poisoning from poorly ventilated gas heaters, fireplaces, or running car engines in closed garages results from this reaction.
Industrial Importance
Carbon monoxide is an important industrial gas used in the Fischer-Tropsch process for synthetic fuel production and in metal ore reduction. It is also a component of syngas.
Properties
- Type
- Synthesis
- Reversible
- No
- Energy
- Exothermic
- ΔH
- -221.0 kJ/mol
Related Reactions
Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General)
Formation of Aluminum Oxide
Formation of Ammonia (Haber Process)
Formation of Barium Oxide
Formation of Barium Sulfate
Formation of Beryllium Oxide
Formation of Cadmium Oxide
Formation of Calcium Carbonate from Oxides
Formation of Calcium Hydroxide
Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the equation for Formation of Carbon Monoxide?
The balanced equation is: 2C + O₂ → 2CO.
What type of reaction is Formation of Carbon Monoxide?
Formation of Carbon Monoxide is a synthesis reaction.
Is Formation of Carbon Monoxide exothermic or endothermic?
Formation of Carbon Monoxide is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -221.0 kJ/mol.