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Examoogle • User • info@examoogle.com • EE-2024-8821
Chapter 1 of 12 • Page 1 of 248🔒 Protected PDF • Watermarked
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How much heavier is carbon dioxide than air?
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15 Times
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Quick Summary: Carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) is approximately 1.5 times denser than atmospheric air. Because its molecular weight is higher than the average molecular weight of the constituents of air (nitrogen and oxygen), it tends to settle in low-lying areas in enclosed environments.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is approximately 1.5 times denser than atmospheric air. Because its molecular weight is higher than the average molecular weight of the constituents of air (nitrogen and oxygen), it tends to settle in low-lying areas in enclosed environments.
V.D.=MairMgas — Definition of vapor density ratio
MCO2≈44.01 g/mol — Molar mass of carbon dioxide
The relative density of a gas is calculated by comparing its molar mass to the average molar mass of dry air. Dry air has an effective molar mass of approximately 28.97 g/mol, while CO2 has a molar mass of approximately 44.01 g/mol. The ratio 44.01/28.97≈1.52, which explains why CO2 is about 1.5 times heavier than air under standard conditions.
Molecular weight of CO2 is 44 g/mol compared to ~29 g/mol for air.
Higher density causes CO2 to displace oxygen in confined spaces (asphyxiation risk).
Used in fire suppression systems because it is heavier than oxygen/air and blankets the fire.
Does not support combustion, making it an effective fire extinguishing agent.
Non-conductive, suitable for electrical fires
Leaves no residue after discharge
High concentrations can lead to suffocation
Effective only in enclosed spaces due to dispersion
Fire suppression in server rooms and electrical panels
Food preservation (modified atmosphere packaging)
Carbonated beverages
In electrical systems, CO2 extinguishers are preferred for Class C fires because the gas is non-conductive and does not damage sensitive electronic equipment.
Option B is correct because the ratio 44/29 yields approximately 1.52.
B is correct — Carbon dioxide is roughly 1.5 times denser than air due to its higher molecular weight compared to the nitrogen-oxygen mixture that composes the atmosphere.
Always remember that CO2 is heavier than air, which is why it is used as a 'blanketing' agent in firefighting to exclude oxygen from the base of the fire.