Final answer:
Chimneys should extend at least 2 feet higher than any part of a building within 10 feet and not less than 3 feet above where it passes through the roof; T-shaped chimney pipes use Bernoulli's principle for improved draft; safety measures include proper vents and carbon monoxide detectors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is true: chimneys should extend at least 2 feet higher than any portion of a building within 10 feet, but shall not be less than 3 feet above the highest point where the chimney passes through the roof. This rule is often part of building codes to ensure proper drafting and to minimize the risk of fires.
T-shaped Chimney Pipes and Bernoulli's Principle
T-shaped chimney pipes have a crosspiece on top that helps draw up gases whenever there is even a slight breeze. This works in terms of Bernoulli's principle, which states that an increase in the speed of a fluid occurs simultaneously with a decrease in pressure or a decrease in the fluid's potential energy. The moving air over the crosspiece creates a lower pressure area at the top of the chimney compared to the higher pressure at the bottom, thus drawing the gases up and out.
Importance of Vents and Detectors
Properly functioning vents and chimneys, along with the placement of carbon monoxide detectors in the home, are crucial safety measures. These precautions prevent the buildup of harmful gases, like carbon monoxide, ensuring the health and safety of the home's occupants.