Why is carbon dioxide used in fire extinguishers?

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Solution

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is not a supporter of combustion (combustion is an exothermic process that involves the formation of heat and light ).
Fire is caused by the three elements i.e. fuel, oxygen, and heat. If one of the three elements is removed fire will stop.
Carbon dioxide removes one element, i.e oxygen.
(CO₂), being heavier than oxygen, covers the fire like a blanket. Since the contact between the fuel and oxygen is cut off, the fire is controlled.
Therefore, (CO₂) is used in fire extinguishers.

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Similar questions

Give reasons for the following :

(a) An excess of carbon dioxide increases the temperature of the earth.

(b) Soda acid and foam type of fire extinguishers are not used for extinguishing electrical fires.

Assertion: Carbon dioxide is used in fire extinguishers.

Reason: Carbon dioxide is a colourless and odourless gas.

Carbon dioxide is used in extinguishing a fire.

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