This is the chemical equation for the burning of methane gas a process that produces a flame.

Question

What is true about the bonds?
(1 point)
The total potential energy stored in bonds are not changed.
No new bonds are formed.
The breaking of chemical bonds absorbs energy.
The breaking of chemical bonds releases energy.

Answer 1

In the context of the burning of methane gas (combustion), the correct statement regarding bonds is:

The breaking of chemical bonds absorbs energy.

When methane (CH₄) reacts with oxygen (O₂) to form carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O), the energy required to break the existing bonds in methane and oxygen is absorbed. However, the overall process is exothermic, meaning that more energy is released when new bonds are formed in the products (CO₂ and H₂O) than is consumed in breaking the initial bonds.

In summary:

• Breaking bonds requires energy (endothermic).
• Forming new bonds releases energy (exothermic).

So, while the statement that "the breaking of chemical bonds absorbs energy" is true, it is essential to consider that the overall reaction results in a net release of energy.