Final answer:
A foam extinguisher is the correct type of fire extinguisher for flammable liquids and gases due to its ability to spread and form a barrier, extinguishing the fire effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of fire extinguisher used for flammable liquids and gases such as oil, gasoline, propane, paint, and other similar substances is a foam extinguisher. This type of extinguisher works because the fluorinated solution it contains is able to spread across the burning surface and effectively extinguish the fire by forming a barrier between the fuel and the oxygen, stopping the combustion process. Foam extinguishers are widely used to fight large-scale fires involving organic liquids. On the other hand, substances like carbon tetrachloride were historically used in fire extinguishers for electrical fires but are no longer recommended due to the formation of toxic gases. Bromine-containing compounds have also been used in fire extinguishers but they are now being replaced due to toxicity and environmental concerns. To sum up, a foam extinguisher is the most appropriate choice for fires involving flammable liquids and gases.