Final answer:
A 'Class D' fire extinguisher is used for fires involving combustible metals like magnesium and titanium. These metals can burn at high temperatures and react with water, air, and certain chemicals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fire extinguisher specifically used for extinguishing fires involving combustible metals like magnesium and titanium is classified as a Class D fire extinguisher. Combustible metals burn at high temperatures and react with water, air, and certain chemicals. The chemical reaction of magnesium (Mg) with Carbon dioxide (CO2), for example, is 2Mg(s) + CO₂(g) → 2MgO(s) + C(s). This implies that a CO2 fire extinguisher can't be used to extinguish a magnesium fire. Moreover, magnesium and some metals in Group 2, like calcium and beryllium, are known as alkaline earth metals.
The reason a CO2 fire extinguisher will not extinguish a magnesium fire is because when magnesium burns, it combines with oxygen from the air to form magnesium oxide. The CO2 fire extinguisher does not contain an extinguishing medium that can react with the burning magnesium to form magnesium oxide, so it is not effective in extinguishing the fire.
It's important to use the appropriate fire extinguisher for the type of fire to ensure effective extinguishment and safety.
They are less reactive than alkali metals, but, like magnesium, they can produce a brilliant light and are often used in fireworks. Therefore, care and proper knowledge of reactions are vital in handling these types of elements, especially in cases of fire incidents.
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