# Explain why alkanes are largely unreactive but do burn readily in excess oxygen, and state the names of the two products formed when a short-chain alkane undergoes complete combustion.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 11.4 Alkanes · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Alkanes are largely unreactive because C–C and C–H bonds are strong / difficult to break
2. Combustion is exothermic / releases a large amount of energy, making alkanes useful fuels
3. Carbon dioxide is produced in complete combustion
4. Water is produced in complete combustion

## Key terms

- [alkane](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/alkane)
- [complete combustion](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/complete-combustion)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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