Air Bag Chemistry Concepts

What is the primary purpose of an air bag in a vehicle?

• To increase the speed of the vehicle

• To prevent the driver or passenger from hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield

• To enhance the vehicle's fuel efficiency

• To improve the vehicle's aerodynamics

What chemical is primarily responsible for the inflation of an air bag?

• Sodium chloride

• Sodium azide

• Potassium nitrate

• Silicon dioxide

What is the chemical equation for the decomposition of sodium azide (NaN₃)?

• 2NaN₃(s) → 2Na(s) + 3N₂(g)

• NaN₃(s) → Na(s) + N₂(g)

• NaN₃(s) → Na(s) + 3N₂(g)

• 2NaN₃(s) → Na(s) + 2N₂(g)

Why is stoichiometry important in the functioning of air bags?

• It determines the color of the air bag

• It ensures the correct amount of gas is produced for inflation

• It affects the durability of the air bag

• It controls the temperature of the air bag

What is the role of potassium nitrate (KNO₃) in air bag deployment?

• It reacts with sodium metal to decrease the danger of airbags

• It stabilizes the air bag material

• It acts as a catalyst for the reaction

• It provides the color for the air bag

What is the main ingredient in sand that reacts with sodium oxide and potassium oxide in air bags?

• Sodium chloride

• Silicon dioxide

• Potassium nitrate

• Calcium carbonate

What gas is primarily produced during the decomposition of sodium azide in air bags?

• Oxygen

• Carbon dioxide

• Nitrogen

• Hydrogen

What happens if an insufficient amount of nitrogen is produced in an air bag?

• The air bag will overinflate

• The air bag will not inflate adequately

• The air bag will change color

• The air bag will become too hot

What is the purpose of the chemical reaction involving silicon dioxide in air bags?

• To produce a colorful display

• To form a safe, stable silicate glass

• To increase the speed of inflation

• To reduce the weight of the air bag

What is the typical amount of NaN₃ in a standard air bag?

• 50 g

• 130 g

• 200 g

• 300 g