Explain how CO₂ is able to control fires.

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) effectively controls fires due to its specific properties:

1. Suffocation Effect: CO₂ displaces oxygen, forming a layer over the fire that suffocates it. By replacing oxygen with CO₂, the fire lacks the necessary oxygen concentration to sustain combustion.

2. Oxygen Reduction: CO₂ lowers the surrounding oxygen levels, preventing the fire from maintaining the oxygen needed for continued burning, effectively halting the combustion process.

3. Cooling Properties: Upon discharge, CO₂ expands rapidly, absorbing heat and creating a cooling effect. This action reduces the temperature of the fuel and the fire’s surroundings, impeding the fire’s ability to sustain itself.

4. Chemical Interruption: CO₂ can interfere with the combustion chain reaction, disrupting the process necessary for the fire’s propagation, acting as a chemical inhibitor.

In summary, carbon dioxide extinguishes fires by smothering flames, reducing oxygen availability, cooling the area, and interrupting the combustion chain reaction, collectively halting the fire’s progression.