Question

Choose the correct statement among the following.

• A. The substances which vapourise during burning, do not give flames.
• B. The substances which have very high ignition temperature are called inflammable substances.
• C. When the match is struck against the rubbing surface, some red phosphorous gets converted into white phosphorous.
• D. The job of a fire extinguisher is to cut off the supply of carbon dioxide, and hence the fire is controlled.

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

When the match is struck against the rubbing surface, some red phosphorous gets converted into white phosphorous.

Carbon Dioxide $\left(C{O}_2\right)$ Extinguishers:
$C{O}_2$ extinguishers contain carbon dioxide, a non-flammable gas. They are so highly pressurized that it is not uncommon for bits of dry ice to shoot out. Since $C{O}_2$ is heavier than oxygen and very cold, it displaces or removes oxygen from the surrounding area and cools the fuel.
When struck against a rough surface, white phosphorus got ignited due to the heat of friction. This started the combustion of the match. However, white phosphorus proved to be dangerous both for the workers involved in the manufacturing of matches and for the users.
The substances which have very low ignition temperature and can easily catch fire with a flame are called inflammable substances. Examples of inflammable substances are petrol, alcohol, Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG), etc.