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A fuel undergoes combustion to heat water - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 2
A fuel undergoes combustion to heat water. Which of the following descriptions of the energy and enthalpy of combustion, ΔH, of the reaction is correct? | Energy ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A fuel undergoes combustion to heat water - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. absorbed by the water
Answer
To assess this option, we need to recognize that during combustion, energy is typically released as the fuel burns to heat the water. Therefore, if the water absorbs energy, it indicates that the overall reaction is endothermic, which usually does not align with combustion reactions. Thus, this statement is inconsistent with the principles of thermodynamics.
Step 2
B. released by the water
Answer
In this case, if the energy is released by the water, it would suggest that the water is cooling down and transferring heat elsewhere. However, in a combustion context, the water receives energy from the reaction rather than losing it. Hence, this option is not accurate.
Step 3
C. absorbed by the water
Answer
Here, the statement suggests that the water absorbs energy. In combustion reactions, the fuel typically releases energy that heats the water. If the combustion is exothermic, where the energy is released, then it aligns with the understanding that the water receives heat. Therefore, this option might be plausible, but we need to consider enthalpy.
Step 4
D. released by the water
Answer
If the reaction involves energy being released by the water, it implies the water is losing heat, which contradicts what is understood about combustion processes. Since combustion usually results in heating substances, this statement does not provide an accurate reflection of combustion behavior.