Question

Which of the following can be used to extinguish a fire caused by petrol?
1. Water
2. Sand
3. Carbon dioxide

• A. 1 and 2
• B. 1, 2 and 3
• C. 2 and 3
• D. 1 and 3

Answer 1

The correct option is C 2 and 3

• Sand and carbon dioxide can be used to extinguish fire caused by inflammable liquids like petrol.
• Sand is a non-combustible substance. When sand is thrown over burning petrol, the sand covers it like a blanket. This cuts off the air supply to the burning petrol due to which the fire gets extinguished.
• Carbon dioxide, being heavier gas than oxygen, settles at the bottom and covers the burning fuel like a blanket. This cuts off the supply of oxygen to burning petrol due to which the fire gets extinguished.
• Water cannot extinguish fire involving oil because water is heavier than oil. So, it sinks below the oil, and oil keeps burning on the top.