Which of the following are the constituents of a soda acid fire extinguisher?
- AConc. sulphuric acid and aluminium sulphate
- BDil. sulphuric acid and sodium carbonate
- CDil. sulphuric acid and sodium bicarbonate solution
- DConc. sulphuric acid and sodium carbonate solution
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: (c) Dil. sulphuric acid and sodium bicarbonate solution
Explanation
A soda acid extinguisher uses sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) solution and dilute sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄).
On mixing they react to release carbon dioxide (CO₂), which blankets the fire and cuts off oxygen supply.
The reaction: 2NaHCO₃ + H₂SO₄ → Na₂SO₄ + H₂O + 2CO₂.