54 CHEMICAL ACTION. 



which soon envelops the paper laid flat 

 upon the cinders : but carbonic acid gas 

 will not blaze. 



Q. If you BLOW the paper, it will BLAZE 

 immediately. Why so ? 



A. By blowing, or opening the door 

 suddenly, the carbonic acid is dissipated, 

 and the paper is instantly fanned into 

 flame. 



Q. Why does WATER EXTINGUISH a FIRE ? 



1st Because the water forms a coating 

 over the fuel, and keeps it from the air : 



2ndly The conversion of water into 

 steam, draws off the heat of the burning 

 fuel. 



Q. Why does a LITTLE WATER make a fire 

 FIERCER, while a LARGER quantity of water puts it 

 OUT? 



A. Water is composed of oxygen and 

 hydrogen; when, therefore, the fire can 

 decompose the water into its simple 

 elements, it serves for fuel to the flame. 



Q, How can WATER serve for FUEL to fire ? 



A. The hydrogen of the water will burn 

 with aflame ; and the oxygen of the water 

 will increase the intensity of that flame. 



