When methanol (CH_3OH) is ignited in the presence of excess oxygen, which of the following sets of products is formed?

• A. CO and H_2
• B. CO_2 and H_2O
• C. C and H_2O
• D. CH_4 and O_2

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the type of chemical reaction taking place. Since methanol (CH_3OH) is ignited in the presence of excess oxygen, this is a combustion reaction.
2. Recall that the complete combustion of a hydrocarbon or alcohol in excess oxygen produces carbon dioxide (CO_2) and water (H_2O) as products.
3. Write the general form of the combustion reaction for methanol: \(\mathrm{CH_3OH} + \mathrm{O_2} \rightarrow \mathrm{CO_2} + \mathrm{H_2O}\).
4. Balance the combustion reaction by ensuring the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation.
5. Confirm that the products are carbon dioxide (CO_2) and water (H_2O), which matches the correct answer choice.