Using the data below, calculate the standard enthalpy change ΔH∘ for each combustion reaction and then rank the three reactions from most exothermic to least exothermic per mole of fuel consumed.
Standard enthalpies of formation (kJ·mol−1):
CH4(g)−75, C2H6(g)−85, C3H8(g)−104, CO2(g)−394, H2O(l)−286, O2(g)0
Reactions (balanced for complete combustion):
I. CH4(g)+2O2(g)→CO2(g)+2H2O(l)
II. 2C2H6(g)+7O2(g)→4CO2(g)+6H2O(l)
III. C3H8(g)+5O2(g)→3CO2(g)+4H2O(l)
Provide (a) the calculated ΔH∘ for each reaction and (b) the ranking (e.g., I > II > III).