Which stack gas reading would show good combustion?

The reading that suggests good combustion is characterized by low levels of oxygen and carbon monoxide, along with high levels of carbon dioxide. This indicates that the fuel is being effectively combusted and converted into energy, with minimal unburned materials or incomplete combustion byproducts.

When oxygen levels are low, this implies that it has been consumed during combustion, which is a sign of effective fuel use. Additionally, low carbon monoxide levels indicate that there is limited incomplete combustion occurring. Carbon monoxide is a direct result of insufficient oxygen during the combustion process. Meanwhile, the presence of high levels of carbon dioxide signifies a successful reaction where the fuel has completely oxidized, producing CO2 as a primary output.

In contrast, alternative readings suggest either incomplete combustion or inefficient processes. High oxygen levels might indicate that there is an excess of air, which could lead to wasted energy. High carbon monoxide levels suggest poor combustion efficiency, while high carbon dioxide coupled with low oxygen would not provide a balanced analysis of combustion efficiency. Balanced levels of all gases would not accurately reflect the specific conditions required for optimizing combustion, as it does not necessarily indicate effectiveness in converting fuel into energy.

Thus, the optimal stack gas reading that demonstrates good combustion conditions is outlined in the second scenario, emphasizing the effective use of