The combustion of candle under limited supply of air forms

The combustion of candle under limited supply of air forms

Answer Details

When a candle burns under a limited supply of air, it doesn't get enough oxygen to completely burn the hydrocarbons in the wax. In complete combustion (with enough air), the candle would ideally produce water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂). However, under limited air supply, the process is incomplete and results in the formation of soot and carbon monoxide (CO).

Here's why:

• Soot is composed of tiny particles of carbon that are given off when some of the wax does not fully combust. This happens because there isn't enough oxygen to ensure complete combustion.
• Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and toxic gas produced alongside soot when the hydrocarbon in the wax doesn't get enough oxygen to form CO₂. Instead of converting to carbon dioxide, carbon remains only partially oxidized, resulting in CO.

In summary, under limited air conditions, the combustion of a candle primarily forms soot and carbon monoxide (CO).