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Chemistry Forums for Students => High School Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: kclive on September 18, 2005, 09:33:51 PM

Title: Write a balanced chemical equation for CH3OC2H5(l) combusted in air.
Post by: kclive on September 18, 2005, 09:33:51 PM
The question is: "Write a balanced chemical equation for the reaction that occurs when CH3OC2H5(l) is combusted in air."

What kind of combustion is this? I know how hydrocarbons, carbonates, chlorates, etc. combust but this is something I've never seen before. This is part of an assignment that I have due in Chem II AP class on Wednesday, so please reply ASAP and share your insight if you know!!!

-Ken C.
Title: Re:Write a balanced chemical equation for CH3OC2H5(l) combusted in air.
Post by: mike on September 18, 2005, 10:03:12 PM
CH3OC2H5 is methoxyethane, a hydrocarbon (ether).

I guess you assume complete combustion, so the products are CO2 and H2O.

2CH3OC2H5 + 9O2 -> 6CO2 + 8H2O
Title: Re:Write a balanced chemical equation for CH3OC2H5(l) combusted in air.
Post by: Borek on September 19, 2005, 04:20:21 AM
Quote from: mike on September 18, 2005, 10:03:12 PM
CH3OC2H5 is methoxyethane, a hydrocarbon (ether).

Methoxyethane is not a hydrocarbon.

Quote
I guess you assume complete combustion, so the products are CO2 and H2O.

And that's enough information, no need to balance equations for others.
Title: Re:Write a balanced chemical equation for CH3OC2H5(l) combusted in air.
Post by: kclive on September 19, 2005, 07:12:51 AM
 :crash:
Then what is methoxyethane? how will it combust? i had a really bad chem teacher last year (but I have a REALLY awesome one this year). PLEEEASE HELP, THIS IS DUE ON WEDNESDAY!!!!!!!

-Ken C.
New Delhi, India.
Title: Re:Write a balanced chemical equation for CH3OC2H5(l) combusted in air.
Post by: Borek on September 19, 2005, 08:45:18 AM
mike's hint - that there are only CO2 and H2O between combustion products - is correct. This should be your starting point.
Title: Re:Write a balanced chemical equation for CH3OC2H5(l) combusted in air.
Post by: kclive on September 19, 2005, 12:30:12 PM
Ok Thanks for your advice. That really helped me!

:Lighten:

-Ken C.
New Delhi, India.