Harsh's mother asked him to close the knob of the gas stove after use, but he forgot. After some time, his mother observed a smell of rotten cabbages in the whole house. She went to the kitchen and saw that the knob was still open. She closed it immediately. Later, she made Harsh understand that it is very dangerous to keep the knob of the stove open, as it can catch fire.

(a) Which characteristic of gas is responsible for this smell in the whole house?

(b) Name the gases that a gas cylinder usually contains.

(c) Is it possible to keep solids and liquids compressed in a cylinder?

(d) What precautions should we follow to avoid any mishaps in the kitchen?

(e) What would you do in such a situation?

(a) Intermolecular force in gases is almost negligible due to which they move freely in all directions and occupy all the space available to them. Hence, the smell of gas spreads in the whole house.

(b) A domestic gas cylinder usually contains Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

(c) Solids and liquids cannot be compressed easily in a cylinder because their molecules have less space between them which does not allow them to compress.

(d) Precautions to avoid mishaps in the kitchen :

1. Always check that the gas knob is closed after use.
2. Keep the kitchen well-ventilated.
3. Do not light a match or switch on electrical appliances if you smell gas.
4. Get the gas pipeline and cylinder checked regularly for leaks.

(e) In such a situation, I would :

1. Immediately close the gas knob and the cylinder valve.
2. Open all windows and doors for ventilation.
3. Avoid lighting any flames or using electrical switches.
4. Inform an adult or the gas company if the smell continues.