This is the combustion equation for methane—methane reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy (heat and light).
Chemical Equation: CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O
Reaction Type:
- Combustion reaction: Burning methane in oxygen
- Exothermic: Releases energy as heat and light
- Complete combustion: Produces CO₂ and H₂O (not CO)
Stoichiometry:
- 1 molecule methane + 2 molecules oxygen → 1 molecule CO₂ + 2 molecules water
- 1 mole CH₄ + 2 moles O₂ → 1 mole CO₂ + 2 moles H₂O
Applications:
- Natural gas combustion (heating, cooking)
- Power generation
- Vehicle fuel
Importants Points:
- Reaction: Methane combustion
- Products: CO₂ and H₂O
- Type: Exothermic, releases energy