When methane (CH₄) and oxygen (O₂) react in a combustion reaction, they produce carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O), along with releasing heat and light energy.

Here's the balanced chemical equation for this reaction:

CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O + heat + light

Explanation:

* Methane (CH₄): This is the fuel source, containing carbon and hydrogen atoms.

* Oxygen (O₂): This is the oxidizer, necessary for the combustion process.

* Carbon dioxide (CO₂): The carbon from the methane combines with oxygen to form carbon dioxide.

* Water (H₂O): The hydrogen from the methane combines with oxygen to form water.

* Heat and light: Energy is released in the form of heat and light, which is why we see a flame in a combustion reaction.