Chemistry · Alkynes: Acidic character, addition of hydrogen, halogens, water and hydrogen halides, polymerization
A mixture of oxygen and ethyne is burnt for welding. Why a mixture of ethyne and
A mixture of oxygen and ethyne is burnt for welding. Why a mixture of ethyne and air is not used?
- A. ethene can not burn in air
- B. incomplete combustion takes place
- C. ethene burn in air with explosion
- D. none of these
Step-by-step solution
Air contains only about 21% oxygen, so when ethyne (acetylene) is burned with air, there is insufficient oxygen for complete combustion. This results in incomplete combustion, producing soot and a lower flame temperature, which is unsuitable for welding. In contrast, pure oxygen ensures complete combustion and a high-temperature flame.