# Propane undergoes complete combustion. Explain what is meant by complete combustion and describe the environmental problems caused by the products of this reaction.

> Edexcel A-Level Chemistry (9CH0) — 8.1 Enthalpy changes and Hess cycles · Explain and Describe · 5 marks

> Propane (C₃H₈) is a hydrocarbon fuel used in gas-powered barbecues and central heating systems. It is a non-renewable fossil fuel.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Complete combustion requires sufficient oxygen
2. The only products of complete combustion of a hydrocarbon are carbon dioxide and water
3. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect
4. Increased carbon dioxide concentration leads to climate change / increased global temperatures
5. Water vapour produced is itself a greenhouse gas OR burning propane as a fossil fuel releases CO₂ previously locked away, increasing atmospheric concentration

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel A-Level Chemistry (9CH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain and Describe" 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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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/propane-undergoes-complete-combustion-explain-what-6a936e32) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.