Using complete sentences, explain how to predict the products and balance the reaction for the combustion of butane, c4h10. c4h10 + o2

The products of methane combustion (C4H10) are carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). 2 moles of methane are burned with 13 moles of oxygen to produce 8 moles of carbon dioxide and 10 moles of water. The adjusted reaction is as follows:

2C4H10 + 13O2 = 8CO2 + 10H2O

Reaction Type: Combustion

Explanation:

In the combustion of methane there are a series of stages: first, methane reacts with oxygen and forms formaldehyde. It decomposes forming the formyl radical, and then carbon monoxide and hydrogen are produced, in a process known as oxidative pyrolysis. Following this process, hydrogen is oxidized and water is produced, with a release of heat. As a last step, carbon monoxide oxidizes to form carbon dioxide with another heat release.