When propanol (C3H7OH) is burned in excess oxygen, what are the products of this reaction?

• A. CO2 and H2O
• B. CO and H2O
• C. C and H2O
• D. CH4 and H2O

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the type of chemical reaction: Burning (combustion) of an organic compound like propanol (C3H7OH) in excess oxygen is a combustion reaction.
2. Recall that complete combustion of an alcohol produces carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) as products.
3. Write the general form of the combustion reaction for an alcohol: \(\mathrm{C_xH_yOH} + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + H_2O\).
4. Balance the combustion reaction by ensuring the number of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms are equal on both sides.
5. Conclude that the products of burning propanol in excess oxygen are carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O).