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Chapter 8: Problem 53

Research how a soda-acid fire extinguisher works, and write the chemical equation for the reaction. Check your house and other structures for different types of fire extinguishers, and ask your local fire department to verify the effectiveness of each type of extinguisher.

Short Answer

Expert verified
A soda-acid fire extinguisher uses the reaction between sulfuric acid and sodium bicarbonate, producing water, carbon dioxide gas, and sodium sulfate. The chemical equation is: \[ \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 + 2\text{NaHCO}_3 \rightarrow \text{Na}_2\text{SO}_4 + 2\text{H}_2\text{O} + 2\text{CO}_2 (g) \]

Step by step solution

01

- Research Soda-Acid Fire Extinguisher

Investigate how a soda-acid fire extinguisher functions. Look for information on its components and operation mechanism. Specifically, understand that it typically contains a solution of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and a separate container of sulfuric acid.
02

- Understand the Chemical Reaction

Determine the chemical reaction that occurs in a soda-acid fire extinguisher. When the extinguisher is activated, sulfuric acid mixes with sodium bicarbonate, producing carbon dioxide gas, which helps to put out the fire. The chemical equation for this reaction is:\[\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 + 2\text{NaHCO}_3 \rightarrow \text{Na}_2\text{SO}_4 + 2\text{H}_2\text{O} + 2\text{CO}_2 (g)\]
03

- Inspect Your House for Fire Extinguishers

Examine your home and other structures to identify the types of fire extinguishers available. Take note of the labels and specifications on each extinguisher.
04

- Consult with the Local Fire Department

Contact your local fire department to discuss and verify the effectiveness of the fire extinguishers you have found. They can provide expert advice on whether your extinguishers are suitable for different types of fires and if they are in good working condition.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

chemical reaction in fire extinguisher
A soda-acid fire extinguisher works through a fascinating chemical reaction. When you activate the extinguisher, sulfuric acid contacts sodium bicarbonate (commonly known as baking soda). This reaction produces carbon dioxide gas, which plays a crucial role in dousing flames. The equation for this reaction is: \(H_2SO_4 + 2 NaHCO_3 \rightarrow Na_2SO_4 + 2 H_2O + 2 CO_2 \text{(g)}\).

This carbon dioxide gas rapidly expands and displaces the oxygen surrounding the fire. Fires need oxygen to continue burning, so by removing it, the fire is effectively put out. The reaction also generates water and sodium sulfate, which are harmless by-products.
fire extinguisher types
There are various types of fire extinguishers, each designed to combat specific types of fires. The soda-acid extinguisher is just one example.

Here are some common types you might encounter:
  • Water Extinguishers: Ideal for standard combustible materials like wood, paper, and cloth.
  • Foam Extinguishers: Suitable for liquid fires (like gasoline) and can also be used on solid materials.
  • Dry Powder Extinguishers: Versatile and effective against various types of fires, including electrical ones.
  • CO2 Extinguishers: Mainly used for electrical fires and can be used on some liquid fires.

It's essential to recognize which type of extinguisher you have, as using the wrong one could be dangerous or ineffective.
sodium bicarbonate and sulfuric acid reaction
In a soda-acid fire extinguisher, there is a reaction between sodium bicarbonate and sulfuric acid. It’s important to understand why this reaction is so effective. When the sulfuric acid mixes with sodium bicarbonate, it triggers a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas. This gas is non-flammable and helps in suffocating the fire.

The reaction can be summarized by the chemical equation: \(H_2SO_4 + 2 NaHCO_3 \rightarrow Na_2SO_4 + 2 H_2O + 2 CO_2 \text{(g)}\). The production of carbon dioxide is rapid, making it an excellent fire suppressant. The action can quickly cover the flames, eliminating the oxygen needed for the fire to sustain and spread.
household safety
Having the right type of fire extinguisher in your home is vital for safety. Multi-purpose extinguishers are generally advisable since they can handle different kinds of fires.

Here are some safety tips:
  • Ensure that extinguishers are easily accessible in case of emergencies.
  • Regularly check the pressure gauge to confirm they are fully charged and ready for use.
  • Educate all household members on how to use an extinguisher properly.
  • Keep extinguishers in critical spots like the kitchen, garage, and near exits.

Routine checks and maintenance can prevent a malfunction when it's most needed.
verification by fire department
Consulting with the local fire department can provide peace of mind regarding your fire safety measures. Fire safety experts can verify the effectiveness of your fire extinguishers and ensure they are suitable for your specific environment.

Here’s how you can benefit from their expertise:
  • They can inspect and test your fire extinguishers to ensure they function correctly.
  • Offer advice on the best type of extinguisher for different areas of your home.
  • Provide training on how to use an extinguisher effectively.
  • Help you establish a fire safety plan tailored for your household.

Getting regular verification and advice from professionals can greatly enhance your preparedness for any fire-related emergency.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Write and balance each of the following equations, and then identify each by type. a. hydrogen \(+\) iodine \(\longrightarrow\) hydrogen iodide b. lithium + hydrochloric acid \(\longrightarrow\) lithium chloride \(+\) hydrogen c. sodium carbonate \(\longrightarrow\) sodium oxide \(+\) carbon dioxide d. mercury (II) oxide \(\longrightarrow\) mercury \(+\) oxygen e. magnesium hydroxide \(\longrightarrow\) magnesium oxide + water

a. What is meant by the activity of an element? b. How does this description differ for metals and nonmetals?

a. What is meant by the term coefficient in relation to a chemical equation? b. How does the presence of a coefficient affect the number of atoms of each type in the formula that the coefficient precedes?

Write the chemical equation that relates to each of the following word equations. Include symbols for physical states in the equation. a. solid zinc sulfide \(+\) oxygen gas \(\longrightarrow\) solid zinc oxide \(+\) sulfur dioxide gas b. aqueous hydrochloric acid + aqueous barium hydroxide \(\longrightarrow\) aqueous barium chloride \(+\text { water }\) c. aqueous nitric acid + aqueous calcium hydroxide \(\longrightarrow\) aqueous calcium nitrate \(+\text { water }\)

Identify and correct each error in the following equations, and then balance each equation. a. \(\mathrm{Li}+\mathrm{O}_{2} \longrightarrow \mathrm{LiO}_{2}\) b. \(\mathrm{H}_{2}+\mathrm{Cl}_{2} \longrightarrow \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{Cl}_{2}\) c. \(\mathrm{MgCO}_{3} \longrightarrow \mathrm{MgO}_{2}+\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) d. \(\mathrm{NaI}+\mathrm{Cl}_{2} \longrightarrow \mathrm{NaCl}+\mathrm{I}\)
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