At what concentrations does gasoline ignite compared to alcohol?

Gasoline ignites at leaner concentrations compared to alcohol due to its different chemical composition and volatility. In general, gasoline has a higher vapor pressure, which means it produces more vapors at lower temperatures than alcohol. These vapors contribute to the fuel's ability to form an ignitable mixture with air even when present in lower concentrations.

The ignition of a fuel-air mixture is influenced by the lower and upper flammability limits, which define the range of concentrations within which the mixture can ignite. Gasoline has a thinner flammability range, allowing it to ignite under conditions where alcohol may not. Alcohols typically require a richer mixture (higher concentration of alcohol vapors) to ignite effectively.

Understanding these properties is crucial for safety in the workplace, especially when handling or storing fuels. Recognizing that gasoline can ignite at leaner concentrations allows for better safety measures to be put in place to prevent accidental ignition and potential fire hazards.