The substitution of chlorine for hydrogen atoms in higher homologues of alkanes typically results in a mixture of chlorinated hydrocarbons, varying in the number of chlorine atoms substituted onto the carbon chain.

Saturated hydrocarbons are unreactive due to the stability of their carbon-carbon single bonds. However, in the presence of sunlight, chlorine undergoes rapid substitution reactions with hydrocarbons, breaking the carbon-hydrogen bonds and forming new carbon-chlorine bonds.

Combustion of fuels such as coal and petroleum leads to the formation of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which are major pollutants in the environment. These pollutants contribute to air pollution, acid rain, and various respiratory issues in ...

Gas or kerosene stoves require proper air inlets to ensure a sufficiently oxygen-rich mixture for complete combustion. This produces a clean blue flame and prevents the formation of soot, thereby optimizing fuel efficiency and reducing environmental pollution.

Limiting the air supply reduces the amount of oxygen available for combustion, leading to incomplete oxidation of the fuel. This results in the formation of sooty flames due to the incomplete burning of carbon.