What are the primary byproducts of the complete combustion of natural gas?

The primary byproducts of the complete combustion of natural gas are carbon dioxide and water vapor. When natural gas, which is primarily composed of methane (CH₄), undergoes complete combustion in the presence of sufficient oxygen, it reacts to produce these two byproducts. The chemical reaction can be simplified as follows:

CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O

In this equation, methane reacts with oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water. This process signifies complete combustion, where all the fuel is burned and converted efficiently.

Understanding the significance of this reaction is crucial in contexts such as energy production and environmental impact. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas, and knowing its production helps in discussions about climate change and emissions. Similarly, water vapor, while a natural component of the atmosphere, also plays a role in atmospheric processes.

The other possible byproducts listed in the other options reflect either incomplete combustion scenarios, where not enough oxygen is present, or they represent gases not typically associated with the complete combustion of natural gas. Thus, identifying carbon dioxide and water vapor as the correct byproducts emphasizes the conditions necessary for complete combustion and their environmental implications.