CMSP Fundamental Knowledge of Science 4

Question 1

Which physical principle is used by miners' self-rescuers (SCSRs) to generate breathable oxygen?

Accepted Answer

Chemical reaction of potassium superoxide (KO₂) with moisture and CO₂

Answer

SCSRs use potassium superoxide (KO₂) which reacts with exhaled moisture and CO₂ to release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide.

Question 2

Rock mechanics in mining defines 'stress' as:

Accepted Answer

Force per unit area acting on a rock mass

Answer

Stress (σ) = Force ÷ Area; it is an internal force per unit area within a rock mass, distinct from strain which is deformation.

Question 3

Which wavelength range of electromagnetic radiation is classified as ultraviolet (UV)?

Accepted Answer

10–400 nm

Answer

Ultraviolet radiation spans approximately 10–400 nm, shorter than visible light (400–700 nm) and relevant to arc welding hazards in mines.

Question 4

What is the approximate percentage of oxygen in normal atmospheric air at the surface?

Accepted Answer

21%

Answer

Normal atmospheric air contains approximately 20.9% (≈21%) oxygen, 78% nitrogen, and 1% argon and other gases.

Question 5

In chemistry, which term describes a substance that donates protons (H⁺) in a chemical reaction?

Accepted Answer

Acid

Answer

According to the Brønsted-Lowry definition, an acid is a proton (H⁺) donor, relevant to understanding acid mine drainage chemistry.

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