Skip to content
    Chemistry A-Level

    exothermic combustion

    What exothermic combustion means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for AQA.

    Definition of exothermic combustion

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain exothermic combustion in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    Burning an alkane is strongly exothermic because the bonds made in the products are stronger overall than the bonds broken in the fuel and in oxygen.
    AQA · Combustion of alkanes (study guide)

    Topics that use exothermic combustion

    Related terms

    Using exothermic combustion in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Chemistry questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Chemistry A-Level terms