Question

What chemical is present in a fire extinguisher?

Answer 1

Fire extinguisher:

• A fire extinguisher is used to control small fires.
• A fire extinguisher contains chemicals such as Sulfuric acid $\left({\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4\right)$ and Sodium bicarbonate $\left({\mathrm{NaHCO}}_3\right)$.

Working of Fire extinguisher:

• When the fire extinguisher is operated by pressing the knob, the sulphuric acid reacts with sodium bicarbonate solution leading to the production of carbon dioxide gas $\left({\mathrm{CO}}_2\right)$.
• The producing carbon dioxide is non-combustible. "As the contact between the fuel and oxygen is cut off, the fire is controlled".