The word equation for the complete combustion of candle wax can be written as:
Candle wax + Oxygen = Carbon dioxide + Water
In this equation, candle wax represents the hydrocarbon found in the candle, and oxygen is required for combustion. When candle wax is burned completely, it reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water.
During the combustion process, the carbon atoms in the candle wax combine with oxygen to form carbon dioxide (CO2), and the hydrogen atoms combine with oxygen to form water (H2O). This reaction releases heat and light, allowing the candle to burn.
It's important to note that the word equation represents the overall chemical reaction, but it does not show the individual steps involved in the combustion process. The combustion of candle wax is an example of an exothermic reaction, as it releases energy in the form of heat and light.
By understanding the word equation for the combustion of candle wax, you can better appreciate the chemical processes involved when a candle burns.