Canadian Entry To Practice (CETP) Practice Test

Which of the following is NOT a product of incomplete combustion of propane?

1. Aldehydes

2. Excessive Water Vapor

3. Carbon Dioxide

4. Carbon Monoxide

The correct answer is: Carbon Dioxide

To determine which product is not a result of incomplete combustion of propane, it's important to understand the combustion process itself. During combustion, propane (C3H8) reacts with oxygen (O2) to produce heat, water (H2O), and various byproducts depending on whether the combustion is complete or incomplete. Complete combustion of propane typically yields carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapor as the primary products. In contrast, incomplete combustion occurs when there is insufficient oxygen, leading to the formation of several harmful byproducts. In instances of incomplete combustion, substances such as carbon monoxide (CO), aldehydes, and even particulate matter may form. Carbon monoxide results from the reduction of carbon and is poisonous. Aldehydes can also be produced due to the oxidation of hydrocarbons during insufficient combustion. Excessive water vapor can still form during incomplete combustion but is not unique to it, as water is always a product in combustion. Carbon dioxide, however, is a product of complete combustion and is also produced in smaller amounts during incomplete combustion. Hence, in this context, saying that carbon dioxide is not a product of incomplete combustion is misleading because it can still be generated alongside other byproducts. Therefore, carbon dioxide is not an