NEETChemistrys Block Elements
What is the purpose of sodium hydrogen carbonate in fire extinguishers?
Options
- ATo cool down the fire
- BTo release oxygen to support combustion
- CTo generate carbon dioxide to smother the fire
- DTo create a barrier to prevent the spread of fire
Correct answer
C. To generate carbon dioxide to smother the fire
Step-by-step solution
Sodium hydrogencarbonate is used in fire extinguishers to generate carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), which displaces oxygen and helps smother the fire by removing the oxygen necessary for combustion.