Andre is predicting the products of chemical reactions. In one reaction, a hydrocarbon is the only reactant. What is the best prediction and explanation of this reaction?

Question

Two new compounds form as the hydrocarbon undergoes a synthesis reaction.
Carbon dioxide and water form because the hydrocarbon undergoes a combustion reaction.
A polymer forms because the hydrocarbon joins with itself in a polymerization reaction.
Oxides form because the hydrocarbon combines with oxygen in an oxidation reaction.

Answer 1

The best prediction and explanation for a reaction involving a hydrocarbon as the only reactant is:

Carbon dioxide and water form because the hydrocarbon undergoes a combustion reaction.

Explanation:

• Hydrocarbons are organic compounds consisting solely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. When hydrocarbons are subjected to combustion, they react with oxygen, resulting in the production of carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O).
• This reaction is characterized by the hydrocarbon burning in the presence of sufficient oxygen. For example, in the combustion of methane (CH4), the products would be carbon dioxide and water, confirming that combustion primarily leads to the formation of these two products.
• While the other options mention various reactions (synthesis, polymerization, oxidation), they do not specifically align with the indicated reaction of a hydrocarbon when sufficient oxygen is present, particularly combustion, which is a common and well-defined reaction type for hydrocarbons.

Given these points, the combustion reaction is the most accurate prediction for what occurs when a hydrocarbon reacts.