This equation shows the reaction that occurs when charcoal burns. What type of reaction is it?

[tex]\[ C + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + \text{energy} \][/tex]

A. Replacement
B. Endothermic
C. Exothermic
D. Decomposition



Answer :

To determine the type of reaction given by the equation [tex]\( C + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + \text{energy} \)[/tex], let's analyze the components and energy changes involved.

1. Identify the Reactants and Products:
- Reactants: Carbon ([tex]\( C \)[/tex]) and Oxygen ([tex]\( O_2 \)[/tex])
- Products: Carbon Dioxide ([tex]\( CO_2 \)[/tex]) and energy.

2. Observe the Nature of the Reaction:
- The reaction involves the combination of carbon and oxygen to form carbon dioxide. In the process, energy is released, indicated by the term "energy" on the product side of the equation.

3. Classification of Reaction Types:
- Replacement Reaction: This type of reaction involves elements switching places between compounds, which is not observed here.
- Endothermic Reaction: This type of reaction absorbs energy from the surroundings. However, in this equation, energy is being released, not absorbed.
- Exothermic Reaction: This type of reaction releases energy to the surroundings. The given reaction clearly states that energy is released.
- Decomposition Reaction: This type involves a single compound breaking down into simpler substances, which is not the case here.

Since the reaction releases energy, it is an exothermic reaction.

Thus, the reaction [tex]\( C + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + \text{energy} \)[/tex] is of type C. Exothermic.