True or false: Liquid nitrogen and dry ice should be stored only in sealed vessels that do not allow gases to escape.

True or false: Liquid nitrogen and dry ice should be stored only in sealed vessels that do not allow gases to escape.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only if kept outdoors
• D. Only in specialized containers

Answer: (B)

Storing liquid nitrogen and dry ice in sealed vessels that do not allow gases to escape is not advisable due to the potential buildup of pressure. Both substances can produce gases that can significantly increase pressure in a sealed environment, leading to the risk of an explosion. Liquid nitrogen, as it warms, converts to nitrogen gas, which can expand rapidly. Similarly, dry ice sublimates directly from solid to gas, creating carbon dioxide gas. It is essential to store these substances in containers that allow for gas venting to ensure safety. Typically, containers meant for liquid nitrogen are designed with vents to safely release nitrogen gas, while dry ice should be kept in ventilated areas to avoid excessive build-up of carbon dioxide. This underscores why the correct answer is that the statement is false; these materials should not be kept in sealed vessels without gas escape.

Storing liquid nitrogen and dry ice in sealed vessels that do not allow gases to escape is not advisable due to the potential buildup of pressure. Both substances can produce gases that can significantly increase pressure in a sealed environment, leading to the risk of an explosion. Liquid nitrogen, as it warms, converts to nitrogen gas, which can expand rapidly. Similarly, dry ice sublimates directly from solid to gas, creating carbon dioxide gas.

It is essential to store these substances in containers that allow for gas venting to ensure safety. Typically, containers meant for liquid nitrogen are designed with vents to safely release nitrogen gas, while dry ice should be kept in ventilated areas to avoid excessive build-up of carbon dioxide. This underscores why the correct answer is that the statement is false; these materials should not be kept in sealed vessels without gas escape.