Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA) GCSE Chemistry Paper 2 Practice Exam

Question: 1 / 405

What happens to the carbon and hydrogen in a hydrocarbon during combustion?

They are reduced

They are oxidised

During combustion, hydrocarbons react with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy in the process. In this chemical reaction, both carbon and hydrogen undergo oxidation.

Oxidation is defined as the loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state, which occurs when carbon and hydrogen atoms in hydrocarbons react with oxygen. When carbon is oxidized, it typically forms carbon dioxide, while hydrogen is oxidized to form water. As a result, the increase in the oxidation state of these elements signifies that they have been transformed into different products through the combustion process, thereby confirming that they are oxidized during this chemical reaction.

This understanding is crucial for recognizing how combustion plays a role in energy production and the effects of burning fossil fuels on the environment.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

They are combined

They are unchanged

Next Question

Report this question

Download Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA) GCSE Chemistry Paper 2 Practice Exam PDF Study Guide
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy