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Pentadecane, C₁₅H₃₂, is a hydrocarbon and is used as a fuel - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 9 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 9
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:Pentadecane, C₁₅H₃₂, is a hydrocarbon and is used as a fuel - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 9 - 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 when there is not enough oxygen present to completely oxidize the fuel. In the case of pentadecane (C₁₅H₃₂), the hydrocarbon can react with limited oxygen molecules. Instead of producing carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O), the incomplete combustion results in the formation of carbon monoxide (CO) as a byproduct.
The reaction can be represented as:
This results from the fact that carbon atoms can bond with an insufficient amount of oxygen when it is limited, leading to the incomplete oxidation of carbon.
Step 2
Explain how carbon monoxide behaves as a toxic gas.
Answer
Carbon monoxide is particularly dangerous because it binds to hemoglobin in the blood more effectively than oxygen does, forming carboxyhemoglobin. This reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen, leading to tissue hypoxia and potentially causing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and even death in high concentrations. Furthermore, carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, making it difficult to detect, which enhances its toxicity in enclosed spaces.