What is the specific gravity of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) relevant to underground coal mining?

The specific gravity of a gas is defined as the ratio of the density of that gas to the density of air at the same temperature and pressure. For Carbon Dioxide (CO2), the specific gravity is approximately 1.52. This means that CO2 is about 1.52 times heavier than air.

In the context of underground coal mining, knowing the specific gravity of gases like CO2 is crucial, as it informs safety protocols and ventilation strategies. Since CO2 is heavier than air, it tends to accumulate in lower areas of a mine, which could pose significant risks to miners if not properly managed. The tendency for CO2 to collect in low-lying areas emphasizes the importance of monitoring gas levels to ensure a safe working environment and to prevent asphyxiation hazards. Understanding the specific gravity helps in the design of effective ventilation systems to disperse dangerous gases, ensuring that miners remain safe while working underground.

The specific gravities associated with the other choices do not accurately reflect the properties of CO2.