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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is essential for a fire to burn?
A
Carbon dioxide
B
Nitrogen
C
Oxygen
D
Helium
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the fire triangle, which consists of three essential components needed for fire to burn: fuel, heat, and an oxidizing agent (usually oxygen).
Recognize that oxygen is the oxidizing agent that supports combustion by reacting with the fuel to produce heat and light.
Identify that carbon dioxide and nitrogen are not fuels or oxidizers; instead, carbon dioxide is often used to extinguish fires by displacing oxygen.
Note that helium is an inert gas and does not support combustion; it neither fuels nor oxidizes the fire.
Conclude that oxygen is essential for fire to burn because it supports the chemical reactions involved in combustion.