Chapter U5.100, Problem 1E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:The way chemical formula helps to decide a compound or elementwill not undergoes combustion needs to be explained.

Concept introduction: A wide variety of substances undergoes combustion. Solid, such as wood and coal, liquids such as kerosene or methanol and gases, such as hydrogen and methane etc. all can combust.

Answer to Problem 1E

In a chemical formula of compound, if carbon and hydrogen atoms present, it indicates the substance will undergoes combustion but carbon dioxide and water do not undergo combustion.

Explanation of Solution

Some generalizations about whether a substance will combust or not is as follows:

1. Ionic compounds do not undergo combustion.
2. Molecular compounds undergo combustion, especially the compounds containing carbon and hydrogen.
3. Elemental metals undergo combustion.
4. Carbon dioxide and water do not undergo combustion.

Conclusion

If the compound is an ionic compound, such as, $\text{NaCl}$ (sodium chloride), it will not burn. Also, carbon dioxide and water do not undergo combustion.