Question

Calculate the number of grams and pounds of CO2 that result from thecombustion of 1 gallon of gasoline (we will assume that gasoline is mostly octane,C8H18). Gasoline has a density of about 0.7g/mL. Hint - Remember to balance thechemical reaction and that combustion uses oxygen gas and heat to generate CO2and water.

Answer 1

Here is the combustion reaction for octane

Molar mass of   = 114 g

Molar mass of CO₂ = 44g

From the above reaction we can say that 114 * 2 = 228 g of C₈H₁₈   gives 16 * 44 g = 704g CO₂

or we can say that 1 gram C₈H₁₈ gives 704/228 g CO₂ .

We have total of 1 gallon or we can say 3785.41 ml C₈H₁₈

using density of C₈H₁₈ = 0.7g/ml and formula - Density = mass/volume

Mass of C₈H₁₈ = volume * density = 3785.41 * 0.7 = 2649.787 g

Now as 1g C₈H₁₈  gives 704/228 g CO₂ on cumbustion so

2649.787 g gives   2649.787 g *704/228 = 8181.7985 g or 18.038 pound CO₂