Write the balanced equation for burning of natural gas?

The balanced chemical equation for burning of natural gas (mainly methane) is:

    CH4 + 2O2 → CO2 + 2H2O

What is Natural Gas?

Natural gas is a fossil fuel mainly made up of methane (CH₄). It is used for cooking, heating, and generating electricity. When natural gas burns, it reacts with oxygen from the air and produces carbon dioxide, water, and energy.

Understanding the Combustion Reaction

When we burn natural gas, we are actually carrying out a combustion reaction. In this reaction, methane reacts with oxygen. The products of this reaction are:

• Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
• Water (H₂O)
• Energy in the form of heat and light

Step-by-Step Balancing of the Equation

Let’s break it down to understand how the equation is balanced:

1. Write the unbalanced reaction: CH₄ + O₂ → CO₂ + H₂O
2. Methane (CH₄) has 4 hydrogen atoms, so you need 2 water molecules to balance hydrogen: CH₄ + O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O
3. Now count the oxygen atoms: 2 in CO₂ and 2 in H₂O × 2 = 4 oxygen atoms total
4. So, you need 2 oxygen molecules (O₂) to balance oxygen: CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O

This equation is now balanced with the same number of each atom on both sides.

Why Is This Reaction Important?

• Cooking: Natural gas is commonly used in kitchens.
• Electricity: Many power plants use natural gas to generate electricity.
• Clean Fuel: It burns more cleanly than coal or oil.

Environmental Note

Although burning natural gas produces less pollution than coal or petrol, it still releases carbon dioxide (CO₂), a greenhouse gas. So, using natural gas should be done carefully to reduce global warming.