What sort of useful things could one do with the ability to combust molecules?

Question

Say for instance, that you are an awesome super-hero(ine). Not only are you the most awesome hero(ine) ever, but you also have the ability to combust molecules. Unfortunately, all you can really do with it so far is some cheesy light show, so no one will take you seriously.

What are some useful/helpful/practical things that you could do with your awesome powers? I could really use some help with this one.

Answer 1

well lighting villains on fire is always cool (in a really disturbing kind of way)...ummm....you could...save people the need to use matches? Sorry, i'm not being very helpful...this is hard. (which you probably already knew...) I'll think about it and edit my answer if i think of anything, good luck! :o)

Answer 2

Combustion reactions always involve molecular oxygen O2. Anytime anything burns (in the usual sense), it is a combustion reaction. Combustion reactions are almost always exothermic (i.e., they give off heat). For example when wood burns, it must do so in the presence of O2 and a lot of heat is produced:

Wood as well as many common items that combust are organic (i.e., they are made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen). When organic molecules combust the reaction products are carbon dioxide and water (as well as heat).

For example consider the combustion of methanol (rubbing alcohol):

Of course, not all combustion reactions release CO2 and water, e.g., the combustion of magnesium metal:

Answer 3

Hi. Look around your room. If you can point to ONE thing that doesn't involve fire at some point then you're a better person than I. Wooden desk? Cut with tools made with and powered by fire. Etc...