Question

Why is carbon dioxide considered the best fire extinguisher to put off fires which are caused by burning of inflammable liquids like oil?

Answer 1

There are several different ways in which fires can be put out. These include the use of foams, carbon dioxide extinguishers, sand, and water. However, not oil of these can be used equally well; it depends on the kind of fire involved.

Complete answer:
In the case of a liquid like oil, the flammable agent will not only burn very hot, but also spread while it is burning. For a small spill, throwing sand on the fire may prove effective as it will block oxygen from fanning the flames and put the fire out. For larger fires, this will prove very impractical. Carbon dioxide works for two reasons. One, it is at a much cooler temperature, as being a gas, it forms a liquid at very low temperatures. Secondly, carbon dioxide will lower the amount of oxygen reaching the flames, and suffocate the fire.

Using water can prove very dangerous when dealing with oil fires. A small fire in a saucepan would cause a mini explosion once water hits the flames, and hot oil would spray everywhere, causing a number of injuries. If the flammable liquid is not contained. Water will only help it to spread faster and cause greater damage.
For solid fires, the use of foaming agents is the more popular method to contain and extinguish the flames.

Note: When putting out fires on individuals, too much carbon dioxide would cause them to suffocate. In that case it is better to either use a thick fabric to extinguish the flames, making sure to protect your own hands.