Chapter U5.19, Problem 6E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The pros and cons of using combustion reaction as a source of energy needs to be determined.

Concept introduction: Combustion reaction is marked by the presence of oxygen. This reaction generates heat and light.

Answer to Problem 6E

There are various pros and cons of using combustion reaction as a source of energy. It is cheap and the number of gases released can be controlled. The cons include damaging soil by changing the pH, the use of combustion reaction contributing to the acid rain and release of poisonous gases, etc.

Explanation of Solution

There are various pros of using combustion reaction such as,

• Hydrocarbons can be used as fuel by burning it to release energy.
• It is cheap.
• The carbon dioxide amount produced can be easily controlled.
• The other gases except carbon dioxide can also be reduced by further refining, etc.

There are also various cons of using combustion reaction such as,

• On complete combustion, a lot of carbon dioxide is released which is a greenhouse gas.
• On incomplete combustion, carbon monoxide is generated which is a poisonous gas.
• On burning oil or coal, sulfur dioxide is produced which may lead to acid rain and changes the pH of the soil.
• Under certain circumstances, unreactive nitrogen reacts to form nitrogen oxides which also has a great contribution to acid rain.

Conclusion

There are various pros and cons of using combustion reaction as a source of energy.