Question 14

Combustion of methane produces carbon dioxide and water.

When methane (CH₄) undergoes combustion, the primary products formed are carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O). This reaction is a fundamental example of a hydrocarbon combustion process.

A) CH₄ and O₂

This option is incorrect because it lists the reactants involved in the combustion process rather than the products. While methane (CH₄) and oxygen (O₂) are necessary for combustion to occur, they do not represent the end products of the reaction.

B) CO₂ and H₂O

This option is correct as it accurately identifies the primary products of methane combustion. The reaction can be summarized by the equation: CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O, showing that carbon dioxide and water are produced when methane burns in the presence of oxygen.

C) Both CO₂ and H₂O

While this option correctly states that carbon dioxide and water are produced, it is somewhat redundant as it does not clarify that these are the specific products formed. Therefore, while true, it is less precise than option B, which directly names the products.

D) None of the above

This option is incorrect because it asserts that no products are formed when, in fact, combustion of methane yields carbon dioxide and water. Thus, this statement misrepresents the outcomes of the combustion process.

Conclusion

The correct answer, option B, accurately identifies the products of methane combustion as carbon dioxide and water. The other options either describe reactants, are vague, or incorrectly assert that no products are formed. This highlights the essential understanding of combustion reactions in organic chemistry.