Question

What sort of reaction occurs when methane and oxygen gas react?

Answer 1

Well, this represents a combustion reaction........

Explanation:

And all chemical reactions balance (i), mass, and (ii) charge:

`CH_4(g)+2O_2(g) rarr CO_2(g) + 2H_2O(l)`

Because strong `C=O` and `O-H` bonds have been formed in the reaction, the reaction is exothermic, i.e. it releases energy:

`CH_4(g)+2O_2(g) rarr CO_2(g) + 2H_2O(l) +Delta`

The energy produced is certainly quantifiable. At the moment, such combustion reactions will be heating our homes, and cooking our breakfast.