Octane + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water + Energy
Let's break it down:
* Octane (C₈H₁₈): The main component of petrol.
* Oxygen (O₂): The reactant that allows combustion to occur.
* Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): A primary product of the reaction.
* Water (H₂O): Another product of the reaction.
* Energy: The released energy powers the engine.
Important Note: This is a simplified representation. The actual combustion of petrol is a complex process involving various intermediate reactions and byproducts.