Burning of natural gas is an example of which type of reaction?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Combustion reaction
Natural gas consists mainly of methane. On burning in oxygen, methane forms carbon dioxide and water and releases heat and light: \(\mathrm{CH_4 + 2O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + 2H_2O}\). A reaction in which a substance undergoes rapid oxidation in oxygen with release of energy is called combustion. Hence, this is a combustion reaction. In contrast, a decomposition reaction involves one compound breaking into simpler substances; here methane reacts with oxygen rather than breaking down.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Combustion reaction
Why is this the correct answer?
Natural gas consists mainly of methane. On burning in oxygen, methane forms carbon dioxide and water and releases heat and light: \(\mathrm{CH_4 + 2O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + 2H_2O}\). A reaction in which a substance undergoes rapid oxidation in oxygen with release of energy is called combustion. Hence, this is a combustion reaction. In contrast, a decomposition reaction involves one compound breaking into simpler substances; here methane reacts with oxygen rather than breaking down.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
