What is the outcome if the air-fuel ratio is improper?

When the air-fuel ratio is improper, particularly if it is not within the range that supports optimal combustion, it can lead to several issues, prominent among which is incomplete combustion. Incomplete combustion occurs when there is either too much fuel and not enough air (fuel-rich conditions), or too much air and not enough fuel (fuel-lean conditions).

In fuel-rich conditions, the excess fuel can lead to the formation of flammable gases that do not fully react, creating a potential for explosive mixtures if they accumulate and are ignited. Conversely, in fuel-lean conditions, while less common for explosions, can also lead to instabilities in combustion processes that may result in erratic burns or pressure spikes, which can increase the risk of explosions.

The implications of an improper air-fuel ratio therefore underline the critical need to maintain the correct proportion to ensure safe and efficient combustion, minimizing risks associated with explosion hazards. This is why the outcome of an improper air-fuel ratio is indeed a significant concern in combustion systems.