CH4 + 2O2 -> CO2 + 2H2O
When methane burns in the presence of oxygen, it undergoes a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). This reaction is highly exothermic, meaning that it releases a significant amount of heat energy. The heat energy released by the combustion of methane is what makes it a valuable fuel source.
The complete combustion of methane requires a stoichiometric ratio of 1 mole of methane to 2 moles of oxygen. However, in practical applications, excess air is often used to ensure complete combustion and prevent the formation of harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO) and unburned hydrocarbons (HC).
