Why do fatty acids burn in the presence of carbon?

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physicisttobe
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Homework Statement
fatty acids and carbon
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Hi everyone!

Do you know why fatty acids burn in the presence of carbon? I found some explanations on the internet but they didn't help me. Can you explain me (in simple terms) why fatty acids burn in the presence of carbon ?
 
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  • #2
No idea what you mean. Not only they contain carbon by themselves, all they need to burn is oxygen.
 
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FAQ: Why do fatty acids burn in the presence of carbon?

Why do fatty acids burn in the presence of carbon?

Fatty acids burn in the presence of carbon because they undergo a chemical reaction known as combustion. During combustion, fatty acids react with oxygen, often facilitated by heat, to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy. Carbon acts as a fuel in this process, providing the necessary conditions for the fatty acids to oxidize and release energy.

What is the role of oxygen in the combustion of fatty acids?

Oxygen plays a crucial role in the combustion of fatty acids. It acts as an oxidizing agent that reacts with the carbon and hydrogen atoms in the fatty acids. This reaction releases energy in the form of heat and light, producing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts. Without oxygen, the combustion process cannot occur.

How does the presence of carbon affect the combustion process?

The presence of carbon is essential in the combustion process as it serves as a primary component of the fatty acids themselves. Carbon atoms in the fatty acids combine with oxygen during combustion to form carbon dioxide. Additionally, carbon-based materials can act as a catalyst or fuel source to sustain the combustion process, ensuring that the fatty acids continue to burn efficiently.

What are the byproducts of burning fatty acids in the presence of carbon?

The primary byproducts of burning fatty acids in the presence of carbon are carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). These are produced when the carbon and hydrogen atoms in the fatty acids react with oxygen. The process also releases energy in the form of heat and light, which is why combustion is often used as a source of energy.

Why is heat necessary for the combustion of fatty acids?

Heat is necessary for the combustion of fatty acids because it provides the activation energy required to initiate the chemical reaction. The heat breaks down the molecular bonds in the fatty acids, allowing them to react more readily with oxygen. Once the reaction starts, it becomes self-sustaining as the energy released from the combustion process generates additional heat, further propagating the reaction.

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