Question

Why is combustion an oxidation reaction?

Answer 1

Hint : Combustion is the process of a substance burning in the presence of oxygen and emitting heat and light as a result. When an atom, molecule, or ion loses one or more electrons in a chemical reaction, it is called oxidation. The oxidation state of a chemical species increases when it undergoes oxidation.

Complete Step By Step Answer:
When chemicals react spontaneously with oxygen, releasing heat and light, the heat emitted accelerates the reaction, making it more violent and quick. If nothing is done to stop it, it will eventually turn into a fire. Combustion is distinguished from other similar reactions that take place in the presence of oxygen by its spontaneous and violent nature.
Combustion takes place in the presence of oxygen or air. Combustion is an oxidation process. An oxidation reaction occurs when oxygen is coupled with a fuel source, which is commonly carbon or hydrogen based, to produce carbon dioxide and water.
Some examples of combustion are:
Burning of sulphur in the air.
An explosion of hydrogen in the air.
Burning of Wax candle.
Combustion of petrol in a car’s engine.
Burning of natural gas in a Bunsen burner.
A bush fire means wood cellulose and other fuels burn in oxygen.

Note :
The oxidised fuel is usually the end product of a combustion reaction (which is mostly liberated in the gaseous state). Smoke is a common term for this. The presence of flames in combustion processes is not unusual. It is important to remember, however, that not all combustion reactions result in fires.