Experts please explain all types of combustion

Dear Student,

Combustion can be defined as burning of any substance in presence of atmospheric oxygen. The following reaction shows a combustion reaction wherein methane is burnt in atmospheric oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water vapour.
CH4 + 2O2 → CO2 + 2H2O
Combustion is an exothermic process i.e., the process is accompanied with the evolution of heat. The release of heat may or may not result in the production of light. Thus, two important things required for the process of combustion to take place are a fuel (combustible substance) and supporter of combustion (oxygen).
There are three different types of combustion:
1) Spontaneous combustion
The combustion in which substances suddenly burst into flames, without the application of any apparent cause is called spontaneous combustion. For example, sodium and phosphorus burn spontaneously in air, even when no external heat is provided to them.
2) Rapid combustion
The combustion in which substances burn rapidly to produce heat and light is called rapid combustion. In rapid combustion, external heat must be supplied so that the substances can burn. For example, when a burning matchstick is brought near a gas stove (with its knob turned on), LPG burns rapidly to produce heat and light.
3) Explosion
The combustion in which sudden reactions take place on ignition of some substances to produce heat, light, and sound is called explosion. For example, fireworks on ignition produce heat, light, and sound. Other substances such as dynamite also explode when ignited to produce huge amounts of energy. Dynamite is used to explode mountains to build roads, train tracks, and tunnels in hilly areas.

Regards

  • 0
With examples
  • 0
What are you looking for?