Question

The picture below shows two cases in which a person is trying to burn the paper cup. In case 1, the cup is filled with water and in case 2, it is empty and dry. Which of the following statements is true about this activity?

• A. Case 1 catches fire
• B. Case 2 catches fire
• C. Case 1 does not catch fire
• D. Case 2 does not catch fire

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (C)

The correct options are
B Case 2 catches fire
C Case 1 does not catch fire

For any substance to burn, it has to reach its ignition temperature on heating. In case 2, the empty paper cup reaches its ignition temperature quickly and catches fire.
However, in case 1, due to the presence of water, the paper does not reach its ignition temperature at all. So, the paper would not burn in case 1.