The question asks about the gas that is primarily responsible for explosions in coal mines. To answer this, we need to analyze the properties of each gas listed in the options.
-
Carbon monoxide (CO): This gas is a colorless, odorless, and toxic gas. It is a byproduct of combustion processes, commonly found in areas with poor ventilation where fuel is burnt. However, it is not primarily responsible for mine explosions.
-
Carbon dioxide (CO₂): This is a colorless and odorless gas produced by respiration and the burning of carbon-based fuels. While it is present in mines, it tends to act as an asphyxiant rather than an explosive gas.
-
Methane (CH₄): Methane is a colorless, odorless, and highly flammable gas. It is commonly found in coal mines due to the decomposition of organic material and is well-known for causing explosions when mixed with air and ignited. Thus, methane is the primary gas responsible for explosions in coal mines.
-
Hydrogen sulphide (H₂S): This is a colorless gas with a characteristic smell of rotten eggs. It is toxic and flammable but is not typically associated with coal mine explosions as much as methane is.
Based on this analysis, methane is the correct answer as it is the gas primarily responsible for explosions in coal mines due to its flammable nature.
To ensure safety, coal mines implement several measures to monitor and control the levels of methane and other hazardous gases. This often includes ventilation systems and regular monitoring to prevent accumulation and potential explosions.