The combustion of elements in oxygen
2 marks · NormalState what is meant by a combustion reaction. Give an example of a combustion reaction involving an element.
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Also accept: Combustion is a reaction with oxygen producing heat and light; Burning magnesium in oxygen to form magnesium oxide
Common mistakes: Describing combustion as just 'burning' without mentioning oxygen; Giving a non-element example (like burning wood)
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · States that combustion is a reaction with oxygen, producing heat and/or light
B2 · 1 mark · Gives a valid example of an element combusting in oxygen (e.g. magnesium, phosphorus)
Worked solution
A combustion reaction is when a substance reacts with oxygen and releases heat and light energy.
Example: Magnesium burns in oxygen to form magnesium oxide.