Question

Write a balanced equation for the combustion of gaseous methanol (CH₃OH). Express your answer as a chemical equation. Identify all of the phases in your answer.

Answer 1

The balanced chemical equation for the combustion of gaseous methanol (CH₃OH) is 2 CH₃OH(g) + 3 O₂(g) → 2 CO₂(g) + 4 H₂O(g), indicating a combustion reaction that releases heat energy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The balanced equation for the combustion of gaseous methanol (CH₃OH) is:

2 CH₃OH(g) + 3 O₂(g) → 2 CO₂(g) + 4 H₂O(g)

In this reaction, gaseous methanol reacts with oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water vapor, both in the gaseous phase. It is important to balance the number of atoms of each element on both sides of the equation. There are two carbons on both sides, six hydrogens, and seven oxygens. The use of coefficients ensures that the law of conservation of mass is followed. This type of reaction is a combustion reaction, which is always exothermic, releasing heat energy.