Question

The significance of ``potentially explosive mixture'' in Coward flammability diagram is

• A. Leakage of fresh air may lead to explosive condition for the mixture
• B. Leakage of firedamp may lead to explosive condition for the mixture
• C. Increase in the ambient temperature may lead to explosive condition for the mixture
• D. Introduction of a source of ignition may result in explosion of the mixture

Hint:

The Coward flammability diagram is a critical tool in coal mine safety to predict and prevent methane explosions by managing gas concentrations.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The Coward flammability diagram is used to assess the explosibility of gas mixtures in coal mines, particularly methane-air mixtures. A "potentially explosive mixture" in this context refers to a mixture that is not currently explosive but can become so under certain conditions. The diagram shows that if fresh air (containing oxygen) leaks into a mixture with a high methane content, it can dilute the mixture into the explosive range (typically 5-15% methane in air), making it prone to explosion if ignited. The other options, while relevant to explosion risks, are not the primary significance of a "potentially explosive mixture" in the Coward diagram.
Thus, the correct answer is Leakage of fresh air may lead to explosive condition for the mixture.