Chapter 8.3, Problem 5RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

One of the reactants of any combustion reaction must be found out.

Concept Introduction:

In a combustion reaction, substances react with oxygen to produce new substances.

Answer to Problem 5RQ

One of the reactants in any combustion reaction is oxygen (O₂).

Explanation of Solution

A general combustion reaction is represented as follows:

  $\text{C}(s)+{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}(g)\to {\mathrm{CO}}_2(g).$

In this reaction, carbon is combusted in presence of oxygen to produce carbon dioxide.

So oxygen is a must for the combustion reaction.

Conclusion

One of the reactants in any combustion reaction must be oxygen.