Consider the following reaction equation: C\(_{16}\)H\(_{34}\) → C\(_5\)H\(_{12}\) + C\(_{11}\)H\(_{22}\). The process represented by the equation is
Answer Details
The process represented by the given chemical equation is cracking. Cracking is a chemical process that involves breaking down larger hydrocarbon molecules into smaller ones. In this reaction, a long-chain hydrocarbon molecule (C16H34) is broken down into two smaller hydrocarbon molecules (C5H12 and C11H22) by the application of heat, which causes the bonds between the atoms in the hydrocarbon to break. Cracking is an important process in the petroleum industry because it allows for the production of smaller hydrocarbons that are more useful as fuels and other industrial applications.