Question

______ can combine to cause a fire or explosion when working with flammable hydrocarbon refrigerants.

a) High temperatures and pressure
b) Low humidity and temperature
c) High humidity and pressure
d) Low temperatures and pressure

Answer 1

High temperatures and pressure can cause fire or explosion with flammable hydrocarbon refrigerants due to increased internal pressure in a confined space and the combustible nature of hydrocarbons.

Step-by-step explanation:

The conditions that can combine to cause a fire or explosion when working with flammable hydrocarbon refrigerants are high temperatures and pressure. This is because flammable gases like hydrocarbons increase in pressure when exposed to high temperatures, especially if they are confined to a constant volume, such as in a closed container.

For example, a canister containing isobutane gas can burst under high temperature because the gas pressure within it will rise proportionately with the temperature. The combustible nature of hydrocarbons like isobutane also poses a risk of fire or explosion upon incineration under these conditions.