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Q107 (IAS/2000) Science & Technology › Basic Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) › Applied everyday chemistry Answer Verified

Most of the explosions in mines occur due to the mixing of

Result
Your answer:  ·  Correct: C
Explanation

Most underground mine explosions are caused by accumulations of methane (firedamp) mixing with air and encountering an ignition source. Methane–air mixtures are highly flammable and have a well‑known explosive range; mixtures around 9–10% are especially volatile, and methane–air mixtures have been responsible for many coal‑mine disasters [1]. Official mining safety reviews identify methane buildup and ventilation failures as primary causes of mine explosions, and recommend continuous methane monitoring to prevent concentrations reaching dangerous levels [2]. Industry summaries also treat firedamp as predominantly methane and a principal explosive hazard in mines. Thus, “methane with air” is the correct choice.

Sources

  1. [1] https://laborcommission.utah.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Fire-Boss-Study-Guide.pdf
  2. [2] https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/topics/fires-explosions.html
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