Question

While camping, you light a small campfire, facilitating the combustion of wood to produce heat and light. What can you determine about this reaction?

a. It releases energy in the form of heat and light.
b. It consumes oxygen and produces carbon dioxide.
c. It involves the conversion of chemical energy to thermal energy.
d. It is an exothermic reaction.

Answer 1

A campfire is an example of basic thermochemistry where the combustion of wood releases heat energy. This heat energy can be used for various purposes like cooking food or providing warmth. The reaction involves the conversion of wood to carbon dioxide and water.

Step-by-step explanation:

A campfire is an example of basic thermochemistry. The reaction is initiated by the application of heat from a match. The reaction converting wood to carbon dioxide and water (among other things) continues, releasing heat energy in the process. This heat energy can then be used to cook food, roast marshmallows, or just keep warm when it's cold outside.