Question

State the chemical property in which the following uses of baking soda are based upon in soda-acid fire-extinguishers.

Answer 1

Chemical Property: Acid-Base Reaction (CO₂ Production)

• Baking soda reacts with sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) in the extinguisher, producing carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas, which helps smother the fire.
• Reaction:
  \[\ce{NaHCO3 + H2SO4 -> Na2SO4 + H2O + CO2↑}\]
• The CO₂ gas displaces oxygen, preventing combustion and extinguishing the fire.