Question 3: We discussed that in order for the combustion of methane to proceed

Question

Question 3: We discussed that in order for the combustion of methane to proceed by the equation: CH4 202CO2H2O there needs to be energy put in such as by a small spark or lit match. Part 3a (2 pts): Why doesn't methane spontaneously combust without the spark? Part 3b (2 pts): Explain why it is that the exact same small spark (same amount of input energy) that causes a balloon filled with methane to burn can also cause an entire tanker truck filled with 1000x volume of methane to explode? (Hint: not enough to say "chain reaction"...explain)

Explanation / Answer

Whenever any reaction occur the extra energy must be provided to overcome potential barrier which is called activation energy and then reaction will be feasible. So this extra energy is provided by the flame or spark. Since combustion is an exothermic reaction energy is releasedwhich can cause other molecules to overcome the energy barrier and combustion take place.

In the form of small spark actually, the activation energy of methane is lowered. As stated earlier Activation energy is the extra energy needed to break the molecules. When a suitable amount of activation energy i.e heat in the form of initial spark is given, the molecule is broken and they are now able to react. when the molecule dissociates they supply more energy to other molecules to keep the reaction going until completion o reaction. Hence only a small spark is needed to burn the huge volume of methane

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