1001 Space Earth Nature History Human World Science and Technology Chemistry Materials Force and Energy Heat and Light Electricity and Magnetism Industry Machines Electronics and Computers Cars and Trucks Railways Ships Aircraft Fishing and Agriculture Undersea Exploration

Choose a Page:How does salt dissolve in water?Where do dyes come from?What is the difference between a m...What is a molecule?How big is an atom?How does film processing work?How do detergents work?How many elements are there?Which is the most common element?*What is inside a fire extinguisher?*What is a polymer?What are acids used for?Are tyres made from natural rubber? What is inside a fire extinguisher? There are various kinds of fire extinguishers designed to fight different types of fire. Electrical fires and those involving flammable liquids need a carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguisher (1). It releases a blanket of CO2 gas that keeps air from the fire. A dry-powder extinguisher (2) contains sodium bicarbonate, which smothers a fire. A soda-acid extinguisher (3) contains sodium carbonate and a flask of acid. If the flask is broken, a chemical reaction releases a stream of frothy water. It is important to use the right kind of fire extinguisher when tackling a fire.   Previous: Back Book: 1001 Section: Science and Technology Chapter: Chemistry