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Describe how concentration temperature and surface area create a danger of explosive combustion with fine powders(e g flour Mills)and gases (e.g methane in mines)
Accepted Answer
Fine powders and gases like methane are prone to explosive combustion due to the interplay of concentration, temperature, and surface area. Here's how:
Concentration: A high concentration of fuel (powder or gas) in air increases the likelihood of combustion. In flour mills, a cloud of fine flour particles can easily reach a concentration that supports a rapid reaction with oxygen.
Temperature: Raising the temperature can provide the activation energy needed to initiate combustion. In mines, the heat from friction or a spark can ignite methane gas, triggering an explosion.
Surface Area: Fine powders have a much greater surface area compared to their bulk counterparts. This increased surface area allows for faster reaction rates with oxygen, leading to a more rapid and intense combustion. In flour mills, the fine particles of flour provide a vast surface area for reaction with oxygen, accelerating the combustion process.
The combination of these factors in a confined space can create a dangerous explosion. This is why fire safety measures are crucial in industries dealing with flammable powders and gases.
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