Decision Tree Analysis In Chemistry

Qn1 Ans
Decision tree analysis will involve step determination of the chemical and physical characteristics of this chemical. By knowing them, it will be very easy to determine the best control method to be employed. Firstly, the compound is corrosive and it therefore suggests that it is highly reactive and use of water and any other chemicals that can lead to an undesired chemical reaction will be ruled out. Also, the spilled chemical is producing fumes, mostly it suggests that it is either a strong acid or an alkali in addition to its corrosive nature. Use of carbon dioxide to manage the fumes/vapors will also be ruled out as the carbon dioxide is likely to react with the chemical to form dangerous substance. Therefore, the choice left is a method which will leave no undesired reaction and even condense the vapor to prevent its spreading to the environment. This is the use of …show more content…
The powder do not affect the chemical structure of the magnesium in the fire extinguishing process. However, a protective coat of magnesium oxide is formed on all the surface of the magnesium as it reacts very fast with air. This layer makes it hard for it continue burning. However, in case water is used when removing the residues even after several days, the fire may reignite. The water will firstly expose the surface of the magnesium residues to reaction and react with it (magnesium) to release flammable hydrogen gas hence reigniting the fire. The fire will be accelerated by the oxygen in the air making it more intense and dangerous. The more the surfaces of the magnesium are exposed the higher the intensity of the fire. It is advisable not to use water in extinguishing magnesium fires however small they are. The equation for the chemical process involved in the re-ignition of the fire is Mg + 2H2O > Mg(OH)2 + H2 and also MgO + H2O >