A. When charcoal is burned, the carbon of the charcoal unites with the oxygen of the air, and forms carbonic acid gas, which is a narcotic poison.
Q. Why does the carbonic acid gas of a charcoal fire rise and disperse itself about the room; whereas the carbonic acid gas of a beer vat settles near the floor?
A. The carbonic acid gas of a charcoal fire is heated by the combustion of the fuel, and rises; but the carbonic acid gas of a beer vat is not heated, and, therefore, rests on the bottom of the vat.
Q. Why do persons throw lime into bins to prevent their offensive smell, in summer time?
A. Bins contain large quantities of carbonic acid gas, which readily combines with lime, and produces “carbonate of lime,” which is entirely free from all offensive odour.
Q. Why do persons throw lime into sewers in summer time?
A. Sewers (like bins) contain large quantities of carbonic acid, which readily combines with lime, and produces carbonate of lime; and thus the offensive gas of the sewer is neutralized.
Q. Can carbonic acid be removed in any way besides by lime?
A. Yes; water thrown into a pit will disperse the carbonic acid.
Q. What effect has water on carbonic acid gas?