Why is combustion reaction an oxidation reaction?

Answer 1

An exothermic reaction is one that gives off heat. Combustion = burning = heat. When the oxygen combines with the carbon and hydrogen atoms, the electrons are able to fall into lower energy states, and the excess energy is released in the form of heat.

An combustion is not always exothermic. Consider the oxides of Nitrogen - endothermic.

Answer 2

because the reaction gives off heat, the definition of exothermic. The efficiency of a internal combustion engine is usually in the 30-40% range; meaning only 30 percent of the energy gets translated in forward momentum. The majority of the remainder gets converted into heat. Essentially the engine just contains mini explosions repeatedly; giving off heat.

Answer 3

Answer:

In all exothermic reactions energy is released as the molecules combine to a less energetic state. In hypothermic (endothermic) reactions energy is absorbed and the molecules rise to a more energetic state.

Answer 4

Combustion means the reaction of a compound with atmospheric oxygen. On the other hand oxidation means:-

i) Addition of oxygen

ii) Removal of hydrogen

iii) Loss of electron

Therefore when a compound/atom react with oxygen it becomes a new compound containing oxygen which satisfy the first condition of oxidation so, combustion is oxidation.

Example:-

C + O2 --------> CO2

Oxidation of C.

Note: Satisfaction of any one of the above condition means oxidation. There is no need to fulfill all the three.

Answer 5

It is because heat is released in the reaction