Question

When one mole of a hydrocarbon \( C_aH_b \) undergoes complete combustion, it requires 7.5 moles of \( O_2 \) and results in the production of 6 moles of \( CO_2 \). Calculate the values of \( a \) and \( b \).

• A. \( a = 4 \) and \( b = 10 \)
• B. \( a = 6 \) and \( b = 6 \)
• C. \( a = 6 \) and \( b = 12 \)
• D. \( a = 4 \) and \( b = 8 \)

Hint:

To balance the combustion of hydrocarbons, remember that the number of oxygen atoms required must be balanced with the oxygen molecules \( O_2 \), and the stoichiometry of \( CO_2 \) and \( H_2O \) depends on the number of carbon and hydrogen atoms in the hydrocarbon.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B