Combustion of alkanes

• Define combustion

  An exothermic reaction with oxygen
• What are the carbon dioxide pollution problems associated with burning hydrocarbons?

  Prevents earth's heat from escaping - global warming. Results in melting of polar ice caps which leads to flooding and serious damage of ecosystems
• What are the water vapour pollution problems associated with burning hydrocarbons?

  It is a greenhouse gas, meaning it contributes to global warming
• What are the carbon monoxide and carbon pollution problems associated with burning hydrocarbons?

  They are produced in incomplete combustion so less energy is released

  • CO reduces ability of blood to carry oxygen, leading to suffocation and death
  • C particles cause breating difficulties and cancer
• What are the sulfur dioxide pollution problems associated with burning hydrocarbons?

  Causes acid rain which leads to erosion and contamination of lakes
• What are the oxides of nitrogen pollution problems associated with burning hydrocarbons?

  Contributes to the problem of acid rain
• What are the unburned hydrocarbon pollution problems associated with burning hydrocarbons?

  They are toxic and have the ability to cause cancer
• Name and explain the two ways to reduce pollution

  -Flue gas desulphurisation

  • Absorb acidic gases and prevents them from escaping

  -Catalytic converters

  • Converts harmful gases to less harmful ones in car exhausts
  • Removes CO, NO and unburned hydrocarbons