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6 Pentadecane, C15H32, is a hydrocarbon and is used as a fuel - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry Combined Science - Question 6 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 6
6 Pentadecane, C15H32, is a hydrocarbon and is used as a fuel. a) The incomplete combustion of pentadecane produces carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas.... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:6 Pentadecane, C15H32, is a hydrocarbon and is used as a fuel - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry Combined Science - Question 6 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why the incomplete combustion of pentadecane can produce carbon monoxide as one of the products.
Answer
Incomplete combustion occurs in conditions where there is insufficient oxygen available for the fuel to react completely. In the case of pentadecane (C15H32), when it burns incompletely due to limited oxygen supply, it forms carbon monoxide (CO) instead of carbon dioxide (CO2). This happens because not all carbon atoms can oxidize fully to CO2, leading to the generation of CO, which is a common product in such scenarios.
Step 2
Explain how carbon monoxide behaves as a toxic gas.
Answer
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a toxic gas because it readily binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells, forming carboxyhemoglobin. This binding reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen to vital organs and tissues, leading to hypoxia. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and in severe cases, can result in death. The gas is odorless and colorless, making it particularly dangerous as individuals may not be aware of its presence until symptoms appear.
Step 3