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Fire: Friend and Foe – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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Fire: Friend and Foe

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7th

7th - English

Fire: Friend and Foe

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Overview of the Chapter

The chapter 'Fire: Friend and Foe' explores the dual nature of fire—its benefits as well as its destructive potential. It discusses how fire has been an essential part of human civilization while also being a dangerous force that requires careful handling.

Fire is a chemical reaction that releases heat and light, known as combustion. It requires three elements: fuel, heat, and oxygen.

Key Concepts

  • Fire as a useful tool in daily life (cooking, heating, industries)
  • Fire as a destructive force (forest fires, accidents)
  • Methods to control and prevent fires
  • Role of firefighters in managing fire hazards

Understanding Fire

Fire has been used by humans for thousands of years. Early humans discovered fire and learned to use it for warmth, protection, and cooking. Over time, fire became essential in various industries, such as metallurgy and energy production.

The 'Fire Triangle' represents the three components necessary for fire: fuel, heat, and oxygen. Removing any one of these can extinguish a fire.

Dangers of Fire

Uncontrolled fire can cause immense damage to life and property. Forest fires, house fires, and industrial accidents are some examples. The chapter emphasizes the importance of fire safety measures, such as installing smoke detectors and keeping fire extinguishers handy.

Fire Prevention and Control

Preventing fires involves eliminating one or more elements of the Fire Triangle. For example:

  • Storing flammable materials safely (reducing fuel)
  • Using fire-resistant materials (reducing heat)
  • Smothering fires with blankets or sand (reducing oxygen)

Role of Firefighters

Firefighters are trained professionals who risk their lives to control fires. They use specialized equipment like water hoses, fire extinguishers, and protective gear to combat fires and rescue people.

A fire extinguisher is a device used to put out small fires by releasing chemicals that disrupt the Fire Triangle.

Conclusion

Fire is both a friend and a foe. While it has greatly benefited human progress, it must be handled with caution. Understanding fire safety measures can help prevent accidents and save lives.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
What is fire?
Answer:

A chemical reaction releasing heat and light.

Question 2:
Name two uses of fire.
Answer:
  • Cooking
  • Keeping warm
Question 3:
What are the three things needed for fire?
Answer:

Fuel, heat, and oxygen.

Question 4:
How does fire become a foe?
Answer:

When it destroys property or lives.

Question 5:
What is a fire extinguisher used for?
Answer:

To put out fires.

Question 6:
Name a natural cause of fire.
Answer:

Lightning strikes.

Question 7:
What is smothering in fire control?
Answer:

Cutting off oxygen supply.

Question 8:
Give an example of fuel.
Answer:

Wood or paper.

Question 9:
How can fire be prevented at home?
Answer:

By keeping flammable items away.

Question 10:
What is the role of firefighters?
Answer:

To control and extinguish fires.

Question 11:
Why is fire called a good servant?
Answer:

It helps in daily activities.

Question 12:
What happens when fire is uncontrolled?
Answer:

It causes destruction.

Question 13:
Name a fire safety measure.
Answer:

Installing smoke detectors.

Question 14:
What is the color of a safe flame?
Answer:

Blue.

Question 15:
What is the main source of fire?
Answer:

The main source of fire is the combustion of a material in the presence of oxygen, heat, and fuel.

Question 16:
Name two ways in which fire can be a friend.
Answer:
  • Fire helps in cooking food.
  • It provides warmth during cold weather.
Question 17:
How does fire become a foe?
Answer:

Fire becomes a foe when it gets out of control, causing destruction to property, forests, and lives.

Question 18:
What are the three essential components required to start a fire?
Answer:

The three essential components are fuel, heat, and oxygen. Together, they form the fire triangle.

Question 19:
Why is water not used to extinguish fires caused by electrical equipment?
Answer:

Water is a conductor of electricity and can cause electric shocks. Instead, fire extinguishers like CO₂ are used.

Question 20:
How can we prevent fires at home?
Answer:
  • Avoid overloading electrical sockets.
  • Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
Question 21:
What is a fire extinguisher?
Answer:

A fire extinguisher is a device used to put out small fires by releasing chemicals like carbon dioxide or foam.

Question 22:
Why is fire considered a chemical reaction?
Answer:

Fire is a chemical reaction because it involves the rapid oxidation of fuel, releasing heat and light.

Question 23:
Name one natural cause of forest fires.
Answer:

Lightning strikes are a natural cause of forest fires, igniting dry vegetation.

Question 24:
What should you do if your clothes catch fire?
Answer:

Stop, drop, and roll to smother the flames and prevent the fire from spreading.

Question 25:
How does fire help in early human civilization?
Answer:

Fire helped early humans in cooking food, staying warm, and protecting themselves from wild animals.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
What are the three essential things required for fire to burn?
Answer:

The three essential things required for fire to burn are fuel, heat, and oxygen. Together, they form the fire triangle.

Question 2:
Why is fire considered a 'friend'?
Answer:

Fire is considered a friend because it helps in cooking food, providing warmth, and generating electricity. It is also used in industries and for various constructive purposes.

Question 3:
How can fire become a 'foe'?
Answer:

Fire becomes a foe when it gets uncontrolled, causing destruction of property, forests, and even lives. It can lead to accidents and environmental damage.

Question 4:
Name two natural causes of fire.
Answer:

Two natural causes of fire are lightning strikes and volcanic eruptions. These can ignite fires without human intervention.

Question 5:
What is the role of water in controlling fire?
Answer:

Water helps control fire by cooling the burning material and cutting off the oxygen supply. However, it should not be used for fires involving electrical equipment or oil.

Question 6:
Why shouldn't water be used to extinguish oil fires?
Answer:

Water should not be used on oil fires because oil floats on water, spreading the fire further. Instead, sand or fire extinguishers should be used.

Question 7:
What is a fire extinguisher?
Answer:

A fire extinguisher is a device that releases chemicals or foam to put out fires by smothering them or cutting off oxygen. Different types are used for different fires.

Question 8:
How does a blanket help in putting out small fires?
Answer:

A blanket helps by cutting off the oxygen supply to the fire, which is essential for burning. This method is effective for small fires, like those on a person's clothes.

Question 9:
What safety measures should be taken to prevent fires at home?
Answer:
  • Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
  • Avoid overloading electrical sockets.
  • Store matches and lighters safely.
  • Install smoke detectors.
Question 10:
Why is it important to have fire drills in schools?
Answer:

Fire drills are important to prepare students and staff for emergencies. They teach everyone how to evacuate safely and quickly in case of a fire.

Question 11:
What is the main message of the chapter 'Fire: Friend and Foe'?
Answer:

The main message is that fire can be both useful and dangerous. We must use it wisely and take precautions to prevent accidents.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
What are the three essential things required for fire to exist? Explain each briefly.
Answer:

For fire to exist, three essential things are needed:

  • Fuel: Any combustible material like wood, paper, or gas that burns to produce fire.
  • Oxygen: Present in the air, it supports the chemical reaction of burning.
  • Heat: A source of ignition, such as a spark or flame, to raise the fuel's temperature to its ignition point.

Without any one of these, fire cannot start or sustain.

Question 2:
How does fire act as a friend to humans? Give two examples.
Answer:

Fire acts as a friend in many ways:

  • Cooking: Fire is used to cook food, making it safe and tasty to eat.
  • Warmth: In cold climates, fire provides heat to keep people warm.

Additionally, fire is used in industries for manufacturing and in ceremonies for rituals.

Question 3:
Describe one way in which fire can be dangerous if not controlled.
Answer:

Fire can be dangerous if it spreads uncontrollably, leading to forest fires. These destroy trees, wildlife, and even human settlements.
Uncontrolled fire also releases harmful smoke, causing air pollution and health problems like breathing difficulties.

Question 4:
What is the role of water in putting out fires? Explain briefly.
Answer:

Water helps extinguish fires by:

  • Cooling: It lowers the temperature of the burning material below its ignition point.
  • Cutting off oxygen: Water vapor forms a layer, preventing oxygen from reaching the fire.

However, water should not be used on electrical or oil fires as it can worsen the situation.

Question 5:
Why is it important to use fire extinguishers for certain types of fires?
Answer:

Fire extinguishers are essential because:

  • They contain chemicals like carbon dioxide or dry powder that safely put out fires without spreading them.
  • They are effective for electrical or oil fires, where water cannot be used.

Using the right extinguisher prevents accidents and minimizes damage.

Question 6:
How can fire be both useful and harmful? Explain with one example each.
Answer:

Fire is useful when controlled, like in cooking, where it prepares meals.
However, it becomes harmful when uncontrolled, such as in house fires, which destroy property and endanger lives.
Proper handling ensures fire remains a friend, not a foe.

Question 7:
What are the three essential components required for fire to exist?
Answer:

For fire to exist, three essential components are needed:

  • Fuel (any combustible material like wood, paper, or gas)
  • Oxygen (present in the air)
  • Heat (a source of ignition to raise the temperature)

These three form the fire triangle, and removing any one of them can extinguish the fire.

Question 8:
How can fire be both a friend and a foe? Explain with examples.
Answer:

Fire is a friend when used constructively, such as:

  • Cooking food
  • Providing warmth in cold weather
  • Generating electricity in power plants

However, fire becomes a foe when uncontrolled, leading to:

  • Destruction of forests (wildfires)
  • Damage to property and lives
  • Air pollution due to excessive smoke
Question 9:
Describe two common methods to extinguish a fire.
Answer:

Two common methods to extinguish fire are:

  1. Cooling: Reducing heat by using water or fire extinguishers.
    Water absorbs heat and lowers the temperature below the ignition point.
  2. Smothering: Cutting off oxygen supply by covering the fire with sand, blankets, or foam.
    This prevents the fire from getting oxygen to sustain itself.
Question 10:
Why should water not be used to extinguish electrical or oil fires?
Answer:

Water should not be used for:

  • Electrical fires: Water conducts electricity, risking electric shocks or spreading the fire.
  • Oil fires: Water sinks below burning oil, causing splashing and spreading flames.
    Instead, CO₂ fire extinguishers or sand should be used to smother such fires.
Question 11:
What precautions should one take to prevent fires at home?
Answer:

Key precautions to prevent fires at home include:

  • Avoid overloading electrical sockets.
  • Keep flammable materials (like curtains, paper) away from stoves.
  • Store matchsticks and lighters safely away from children.
  • Install smoke detectors for early warnings.
  • Learn basic fire safety measures and emergency exits.
Question 12:
Explain the role of firefighters in controlling fires.
Answer:

Firefighters play a crucial role in:

  • Rescuing people trapped in fire incidents.
  • Extinguishing fires using water, foam, or specialized equipment.
  • Preventing spread by creating firebreaks in wildfires.
  • Educating the public on fire safety measures.

They wear protective gear like helmets and oxygen masks to stay safe while battling flames.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Explain how fire can be both a friend and a foe with examples from the chapter.
Answer:
Introduction

Fire is a powerful natural force that can be useful or destructive. Our textbook shows how humans have learned to control it.


Argument 1
  • Friend: Fire helps cook food, provide warmth, and generate energy. Example: Campfires keep us warm in winters.
  • Foe: Uncontrolled fire destroys forests and homes. Example: Wildfires harm wildlife and people.

Conclusion

Understanding fire’s dual nature helps us use it wisely and prevent disasters.

Question 2:
Describe the three essential requirements for fire to burn, as explained in the chapter.
Answer:
Introduction

Fire needs specific conditions to burn. Our textbook lists three key factors.


Argument 1
  • Fuel: Like wood or paper, which burns easily.
  • Oxygen: Air supplies oxygen to sustain flames.
  • Heat: A spark or matchstick starts the fire.

Argument 2

Example: A candle needs wax (fuel), air (oxygen), and a match (heat). Removing any stops the fire.


Conclusion

Knowing these requirements helps control fire safely.

Question 3:
How do firefighters control fires? Mention two methods from the chapter.
Answer:
Introduction

Firefighters use scientific methods to stop fires. Our textbook explains their techniques.


Argument 1
  • Cooling: Water removes heat, stopping combustion.
  • Smothering: Foam or sand cuts off oxygen supply.

Argument 2

Example: Firefighters spray water on burning buildings. They also use blankets to smother small fires.


Conclusion

These methods help save lives and property.

Question 4:
Discuss the historical significance of fire in human civilization.
Answer:
Introduction

Fire has shaped human progress. Our textbook highlights its importance.


Argument 1
  • Cooking: Early humans used fire to cook food, making it safer.
  • Protection: Fire scared away wild animals at night.

Argument 2

Example: Ancient tribes relied on fire for warmth and light. Later, it helped in metalworking.


Conclusion

Fire remains a cornerstone of human development.

Question 5:
What precautions should we take to prevent fire accidents at home? Give two examples.
Answer:
Introduction

Preventing fires at home is crucial. Our textbook suggests simple safety steps.


Argument 1
  • Electrical safety: Avoid overloading sockets or using faulty wires.
  • Kitchen safety: Never leave cooking unattended.

Argument 2

Example: Keep matches away from children. Install smoke detectors for early warnings.


Conclusion

Small precautions can prevent major accidents.

Question 6:
Describe the three essential requirements for fire to burn, as mentioned in the chapter.
Answer:
Introduction

Fire needs specific conditions to burn. Our textbook explains these requirements clearly.

Argument 1
  • Fuel: Like wood or paper, which burns easily.
  • Oxygen: Air supplies oxygen, helping flames grow.
  • Heat: A spark or matchstick starts the fire.
Conclusion

Without any of these, fire cannot exist. This is why firefighters remove one element to stop fires.

Question 7:
Why is early human’s discovery of fire considered a milestone? Support with examples.
Answer:
Introduction

Fire changed human life forever. Our textbook explains its historical importance.

Argument 1
  • Early humans cooked food, making it safer and tastier.
  • Fire provided warmth and protection from wild animals.
Conclusion

Without fire, human progress would have been much slower.

Question 8:
Explain how fire can be both a friend and a foe with examples from daily life.
Answer:
Introduction

Fire is a powerful natural force that can be useful or destructive depending on how we use it.


Argument 1
  • As a friend, fire helps us cook food, provide warmth, and generate electricity.
  • Example: Our textbook shows how early humans used fire for survival.

Argument 2
  • As a foe, fire can cause wildfires, destroy homes, and harm lives.
  • Example: Uncontrolled forest fires damage ecosystems.

Conclusion

We must handle fire carefully to enjoy its benefits while avoiding dangers.

Question 9:
Describe the three essential requirements for fire to burn with real-life applications.
Answer:
Introduction

Fire needs three things to burn: fuel, heat, and oxygen.


Argument 1
  • Fuel: Wood, paper, or gas can burn.
  • Example: Our textbook mentions campfires using wood.

Argument 2
  • Heat: A matchstick provides heat to start fire.
  • Example: Cooking gas needs a spark to ignite.

Conclusion

Understanding these requirements helps us control fire safely.

Question 10:
How do fire extinguishers work? Explain with NCERT examples.
Answer:
Introduction

Fire extinguishers stop fires by removing one of the three essentials.


Argument 1
  • They cut off oxygen using chemicals like CO₂.
  • Example: Our textbook shows CO₂ extinguishers for electrical fires.

Argument 2
  • Some use foam to cool the heat.
  • Example: Water-based extinguishers for wood fires.

Conclusion

Knowing how extinguishers work helps us use them correctly.

Question 11:
Discuss the role of firefighters in controlling fire emergencies.
Answer:
Introduction

Firefighters are trained professionals who save lives and property from fires.


Argument 1
  • They use special equipment like hoses and fire trucks.
  • Example: Our textbook describes their protective gear.

Argument 2
  • They educate people about fire safety measures.
  • Example: Schools conduct fire drills with their help.

Conclusion

Firefighters play a crucial role in keeping us safe.

Question 12:
Why is prevention better than cure when dealing with fire hazards?
Answer:
Introduction

Preventing fires is easier than controlling them after they start.


Argument 1
  • Simple steps like not playing with matches can avoid accidents.
  • Example: Our textbook warns against careless behavior.

Argument 2
  • Smoke alarms and fire-safe buildings reduce risks.
  • Example: Homes with alarms detect fires early.

Conclusion

Being cautious helps us avoid fire-related disasters.

Question 13:
Explain how fire can be both a friend and a foe to humans, providing examples for each. Support your answer with a brief explanation of the fire triangle.
Answer:

Fire is considered a friend when used constructively for human needs. For example, fire helps in cooking food, providing warmth during cold weather, and in industrial processes like metal smelting. It also plays a crucial role in generating electricity in thermal power plants.

However, fire becomes a foe when it gets out of control. Forest fires destroy vast areas of vegetation, wildlife, and property. Accidental fires in homes or factories can cause injuries, loss of life, and damage to valuable resources.

The fire triangle consists of three essential elements needed for fire to occur: fuel (like wood or paper), heat (to raise the temperature to ignition point), and oxygen (to sustain combustion). Removing any one of these elements can extinguish a fire.

Question 14:
Describe the different methods of fire extinguishing mentioned in the chapter, along with the scientific principle behind each method.
Answer:

There are several methods to extinguish a fire, each targeting one or more elements of the fire triangle:

  • Cooling: Using water to reduce the heat. Water absorbs heat and lowers the temperature below the ignition point.
  • Smothering: Cutting off the oxygen supply by covering the fire with a blanket, sand, or foam. This prevents oxygen from reaching the flames.
  • Removing fuel: In forest fires, creating firebreaks (gaps in vegetation) stops the fire from spreading by eliminating the fuel source.

Each method works scientifically by disrupting the balance of the fire triangle. For example, fire extinguishers release substances like carbon dioxide, which displaces oxygen and smothers the flames.

Question 15:
Explain the role of fire as both a friend and a foe to humans, providing examples to support your answer.
Answer:

Fire is a powerful natural phenomenon that has been both a friend and a foe to humans since ancient times. As a friend, fire has been essential for survival and progress. For example:

  • Cooking: Fire allows us to cook food, making it safer and easier to digest.
  • Warmth: It provides warmth during cold seasons, protecting humans from harsh weather.
  • Industrial Use: Fire is used in industries for melting metals, generating electricity, and manufacturing products.

However, fire can also be a foe when it gets out of control. Examples include:

  • Forest Fires: These destroy vast areas of land, wildlife, and human settlements.
  • Accidents: Uncontrolled fire can cause burns, injuries, and even loss of life.
  • Property Damage: Fires can reduce homes and buildings to ashes within minutes.

Thus, while fire is indispensable for human civilization, it must be handled with caution to prevent disasters.

Question 16:
Describe the fire triangle and explain how removing any one of its components can help in controlling fire.
Answer:

The fire triangle is a model that represents the three essential elements required for fire to occur: fuel, heat, and oxygen. Removing any one of these components can extinguish a fire.

  • Fuel: This is any combustible material like wood, paper, or gas. Without fuel, fire cannot sustain itself.
  • Heat: Fire needs a certain temperature to ignite and continue burning. Cooling the fuel below its ignition point stops the fire.
  • Oxygen: Fire requires oxygen to support combustion. Smothering a fire cuts off its oxygen supply.

For example:

  • Pouring water on a fire removes heat by cooling it down.
  • Covering a small fire with a blanket removes oxygen.
  • Clearing dry leaves around a forest fire removes fuel, preventing its spread.

Understanding the fire triangle helps in taking appropriate measures to control fires effectively.

Question 17:
Explain how fire can be both a friend and a foe to humans, providing examples for each. Also, mention one safety measure to prevent fire accidents at home.
Answer:

Fire is considered a friend because it has been essential for human survival and progress. For example, fire helps in cooking food, providing warmth during cold weather, and is used in industries for manufacturing various products like steel and glass. It also plays a crucial role in generating electricity in thermal power plants.

However, fire can also be a foe when it gets out of control. Uncontrolled fires can cause destruction of property, harm to living beings, and even loss of life. For instance, forest fires destroy vast areas of vegetation and wildlife, while house fires can burn down homes and endanger families.

One important safety measure to prevent fire accidents at home is to avoid overloading electrical sockets and to keep flammable materials like paper and cloth away from heat sources like stoves and heaters.

Question 18:
Describe the fire triangle and explain how removing any one of its components can help in controlling a fire. Provide a real-life example to support your answer.
Answer:

The fire triangle consists of three essential components needed for a fire to start and sustain: fuel, heat, and oxygen.

  • Fuel refers to any combustible material like wood, paper, or gas.
  • Heat is the energy required to raise the temperature of the fuel to its ignition point.
  • Oxygen supports the chemical reactions that occur during burning.

Removing any one of these components can help control a fire. For example, removing heat by pouring water on a fire cools the fuel below its ignition point. Removing oxygen can be done by covering a small fire with a blanket or using a fire extinguisher that releases carbon dioxide to smother the flames. Removing fuel involves clearing the area of flammable materials to stop the fire from spreading.

A real-life example is using a fire extinguisher in a kitchen when oil catches fire. The extinguisher releases substances that cut off the oxygen supply, effectively putting out the fire.

Question 19:
Explain the role of fire as both a friend and a foe in human life, providing examples to support your answer.
Answer:

Fire plays a dual role in human life, acting as both a friend and a foe. As a friend, fire is essential for various daily activities. For example:

  • Cooking: Fire helps in preparing food, making it safe and tasty to eat.
  • Warmth: In cold regions, fire provides heat to keep people warm.
  • Industries: Fire is used in factories to manufacture products like steel, glass, and ceramics.

However, fire can also be a foe when it gets out of control. Examples include:

  • Forest Fires: These destroy trees, wildlife, and even homes, causing ecological damage.
  • Accidents: Uncontrolled fire can lead to burns, injuries, or loss of life.
  • Property Damage: Fires can reduce buildings to ashes, leading to financial losses.

Thus, while fire is a valuable resource, it must be handled with care to prevent harm.

Question 20:
Describe the three essential components required for fire to exist, and explain how removing any one of them can help in controlling a fire.
Answer:

Fire requires three essential components, known as the Fire Triangle:

  • Fuel: Any combustible material like wood, paper, or gas.
  • Oxygen: Present in the air, it supports the chemical reaction of burning.
  • Heat: A source of ignition to start the fire.

To control a fire, we can remove any one of these components:


1. Removing Fuel: Starving the fire by taking away flammable materials. For example, clearing dry leaves around a forest fire.

2. Removing Oxygen: Smothering the fire by cutting off its air supply. Using a fire blanket or sand stops oxygen from reaching the flames.

3. Removing Heat: Cooling the fire with water or fire extinguishers lowers the temperature below the ignition point.

Understanding these principles helps in fire safety and prevention.

Question 21:
Explain the role of fire as both a friend and a foe in human life. Support your answer with examples.
Answer:

Fire plays a dual role in human life, acting as both a friend and a foe. As a friend, fire is essential for various daily activities. For example:

  • Cooking: Fire helps in preparing food, making it safe and tasty to eat.
  • Warmth: In cold regions, fire provides heat to keep people warm.
  • Industries: Fire is used in factories to manufacture products like steel, glass, and ceramics.

However, fire can also be a foe when it gets out of control. Examples include:

  • Forest Fires: These destroy trees, wildlife, and even homes, causing ecological damage.
  • Accidents: Uncontrolled fire can lead to burns, injuries, or loss of life.
  • Property Damage: Fire can reduce buildings to ashes, leading to financial losses.

Thus, while fire is indispensable for survival, it must be handled with care to prevent disasters.

Question 22:
Describe the three essential components required for fire to burn. How can removing any one of these components help in controlling fire?
Answer:

For fire to burn, three essential components are required, often referred to as the fire triangle:

  • Fuel: Any combustible material like wood, paper, or gas.
  • Oxygen: Present in the air, it supports the chemical reaction of burning.
  • Heat: A source of ignition, such as a spark or flame, to start the fire.

Removing any one of these components can help control or extinguish fire:


1. Removing Fuel: If no combustible material is available, fire cannot sustain. Example: Clearing dry leaves to prevent forest fires.

2. Removing Oxygen: Fire needs oxygen to burn. Covering a fire with a blanket or using a fire extinguisher cuts off oxygen supply.

3. Removing Heat: Cooling the fire with water reduces the temperature below its ignition point, stopping the fire.

Understanding these components helps in fire prevention and safety measures.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
In the chapter Fire: Friend and Foe, we learn about the uses of fire. List two ways fire is helpful to humans and explain one with an example from daily life.
Answer:
Case Summary

Fire is both useful and dangerous. Our textbook shows how fire helps in cooking and keeping warm.

Analysis
  • Cooking: Fire is used to prepare food. For example, we use gas stoves to cook meals daily.
  • Warmth: In cold areas, fire provides heat to survive harsh winters.
Conclusion

Fire is essential but must be handled carefully to avoid accidents.

Question 2:
The chapter mentions fire as a foe. Describe one situation where fire becomes dangerous and suggest a safety measure to prevent it.
Answer:
Case Summary

Fire can destroy homes and forests if uncontrolled. Our textbook explains how careless handling leads to disasters.

Analysis
  • Forest fires: Dry leaves catch fire easily, spreading quickly. For example, campfires left unattended can cause wildfires.
  • Safety measure: Always extinguish fires completely after use.
Conclusion

Being cautious with fire prevents harm to people and nature.

Question 3:
Explain the three things needed to make fire as described in the chapter. Give an example of how removing one can stop fire.
Answer:
Case Summary

Fire requires fuel, heat, and oxygen. Our textbook calls this the fire triangle.

Analysis
  • Fuel: Wood or paper.
  • Heat: Matches or lighters.
  • Oxygen: Air around us.

Example: Pouring water on a fire removes heat, stopping it.

Conclusion

Understanding the fire triangle helps control fires effectively.

Question 4:
How do firefighters control fires? Mention two methods from the chapter and explain one with a real-life application.
Answer:
Case Summary

Firefighters use special techniques to stop fires. Our textbook describes cooling and smothering.

Analysis
  • Cooling: Water reduces heat. For example, fire engines spray water on burning buildings.
  • Smothering: Blankets cut off oxygen, like covering a small fire with a thick cloth.
Conclusion

Firefighters save lives by using scientific methods to control fires.

Question 5:
Explain the three things needed for fire with examples from the chapter Fire: Friend and Foe.
Answer:
Case Summary

Fire requires fuel, heat, and oxygen. Our textbook gives clear examples.

Analysis
  • Fuel: Wood or paper burns easily.
  • Heat: A matchstick provides heat to start fire.
  • Oxygen: Air keeps the fire burning. Blowing on a flame makes it grow.
Conclusion

Understanding these elements helps control fire safely.

Question 6:
How do firefighters control fires? Mention two methods from the chapter and explain one.
Answer:
Case Summary

Firefighters use special techniques to stop fires. Our textbook describes their methods.

Analysis
  • Water: It cools the fire and removes heat. For example, hoses spray water on flames.
  • Fire extinguishers: These cut off oxygen. They are used in small fires at home.
Conclusion

Firefighters save lives by using these methods wisely.

Question 7:
In the chapter Fire: Friend and Foe, we learn that fire can be both useful and dangerous. List two benefits of fire as a friend and explain one precaution to prevent it from becoming a foe.
Answer:
Case Summary

Fire helps us cook food and keep warm. Our textbook shows it also aids in industries like metalworking.

Analysis
  • Friend: Cooking and heating
  • Friend: Industrial uses
Conclusion

To prevent danger, we must keep flammable items away from fire sources, like storing matchboxes safely.

Question 8:
The chapter mentions three essential requirements for fire. Identify them and describe how removing one can stop fire.
Answer:
Case Summary

Fire needs fuel, heat, and oxygen. Our textbook explains these as the fire triangle.

Analysis
  • Fuel: Wood or paper
  • Heat: Matches or sparks
  • Oxygen: Air
Conclusion

Removing oxygen (e.g., using a fire blanket) smothers flames by cutting off air supply.

Question 9:
Compare how fire was discovered in ancient times versus modern fire safety methods. Give one example of each.
Answer:
Case Summary

Early humans discovered fire by rubbing stones, while today we use advanced tools like fire extinguishers.

Analysis
  • Ancient: Friction-based ignition
  • Modern: Chemical suppressants
Conclusion

Example: Campfires (past) vs. sprinkler systems (present) show how fire management evolved.

Question 10:
The chapter states firefighters use specific techniques. Name two methods and explain how water helps control fire.
Answer:
Case Summary

Firefighters use water and foam. Our textbook highlights cooling and oxygen removal as key actions.

Analysis
  • Method: Spraying water
  • Method: Applying foam
Conclusion

Water cools burning material below ignition temperature and blocks oxygen, stopping the fire cycle.

Question 11:

Read the following passage and answer the question below:

Fire has been a friend to humans for centuries, helping in cooking, keeping warm, and even in industrial processes. However, when uncontrolled, it becomes a foe, causing destruction to life and property. The key to using fire safely lies in understanding its nature and taking precautions.

Question: Based on the passage, explain how fire can be both a friend and a foe. Also, suggest two precautions to prevent fire accidents at home.

Answer:

Fire is a friend because it helps humans in various ways:

  • It is used for cooking food, making it safe and tasty.
  • It provides warmth during cold weather.
  • It is essential in industries for processes like metal smelting.
However, fire becomes a foe when it gets out of control, leading to:
  • Destruction of homes, forests, and wildlife.
  • Loss of human lives and injuries.

Two precautions to prevent fire accidents at home are:

  1. Always supervise cooking and keep flammable items away from the stove.
  2. Avoid overloading electrical sockets and check wiring regularly to prevent short circuits.
Question 12:

Read the following scenario and answer the question below:

During a school science fair, Riya demonstrated how fire needs three things to burn: fuel, heat, and oxygen. She used a candle to show that covering it with a glass jar extinguishes the flame.

Question: Explain why the candle flame went out when covered with a glass jar. How does this experiment relate to the methods used by firefighters to control fires?

Answer:

The candle flame went out when covered with a glass jar because the jar cut off the supply of oxygen, which is one of the three essential elements for fire (fuel, heat, and oxygen). Without oxygen, the fire cannot sustain itself and dies out.

This experiment relates to how firefighters control fires:

  • Firefighters use fire extinguishers or water to remove heat or oxygen from the fire.
  • They may also use fire blankets to smother small fires, similar to how the jar cut off oxygen to the candle.

Understanding these principles helps in preventing and controlling fires effectively.

Question 13:
Rahul noticed his mother using a fire extinguisher to put out a small kitchen fire. Based on the chapter Fire: Friend and Foe, explain why fire extinguishers are effective and describe the three essential requirements for fire to occur.
Answer:

Fire extinguishers are effective because they remove one or more of the three essential requirements needed for fire to occur. These requirements are:

  • Fuel: Any combustible material like wood, paper, or gas.
  • Oxygen: Air supply that supports combustion.
  • Heat: High temperature to ignite the fuel.

Fire extinguishers work by either cooling the heat (using water or foam), cutting off oxygen (using CO₂), or removing the fuel source. For example, in Rahul's case, the extinguisher likely used CO₂ to smother the flames by displacing oxygen. Understanding these principles helps us control fire safely.

Question 14:
During a school camping trip, Priya's teacher explained how early humans used fire as a friend. Later, they discussed forest fires as a foe. Compare the beneficial and harmful effects of fire mentioned in the chapter, giving two examples of each.
Answer:

Fire can be both a friend and a foe, as explained in the chapter:

Beneficial Effects:

  • Cooking and warmth: Early humans used fire to cook food and stay warm, improving survival.
  • Industrial use: Fire is used in factories to melt metals and produce energy.

Harmful Effects:

  • Forest fires: They destroy wildlife, trees, and homes, causing ecological damage.
  • Accidents: Uncontrolled fire can burn buildings and harm people, like in Priya's discussion.

Understanding these dual roles helps us respect fire's power and use it responsibly.

Question 15:
Read the following case: In a village, people use fire for cooking, warmth, and festivals. However, one day, a fire broke out in a hut due to careless handling of a diya. Villagers rushed to control it using sand and water. Based on this, answer:

(a) Why is fire considered both a friend and a foe?
(b) What precautions could the villagers have taken to prevent the accident?
Answer:

(a) Fire is a friend because it is essential for cooking, providing warmth, and during festivals like Diwali. However, it becomes a foe when uncontrolled, causing destruction to life and property, as seen in the hut fire.

(b) The villagers could have taken these precautions:

  • Keeping flammable materials away from open flames.
  • Supervising diyas or candles carefully.
  • Having a fire extinguisher or bucket of sand ready nearby.

Question 16:
A school conducted a fire safety drill where students learned about the fire triangle. Observe the diagram below (not included here) showing fuel, heat, and oxygen. Answer:

(a) How does removing one element of the fire triangle stop fire?
(b) Give two real-life examples where this principle is used to control fire.
Answer:

(a) The fire triangle consists of fuel, heat, and oxygen. Removing any one element breaks the triangle, stopping the fire. For example, removing oxygen smothers flames, while cooling (reducing heat) or removing fuel stops combustion.

(b) Real-life examples:

  • Using a fire extinguisher (cuts off oxygen).
  • Pouring water on fire (cools heat and separates fuel from flames).

Question 17:
Rahul noticed his mother using a fire extinguisher to put out a small kitchen fire. Based on the chapter Fire: Friend and Foe, explain why fire extinguishers are effective and describe the three essential components required for fire to exist.
Answer:

Fire extinguishers are effective because they work by removing one or more of the three essential components needed for fire to exist: fuel, heat, and oxygen. Most extinguishers either cool the fire (removing heat), smother it (cutting off oxygen), or remove the fuel source.


The three essential components for fire are:

  • Fuel: Any combustible material like wood, paper, or gas.
  • Heat: A high enough temperature to ignite the fuel.
  • Oxygen: Present in the air, it supports the chemical reaction of burning.

Without any one of these, fire cannot sustain itself. Fire extinguishers disrupt this fire triangle, making them a reliable tool for fire safety.

Question 18:
In a school science fair, students demonstrated how fire can be both useful and dangerous. Referring to the chapter Fire: Friend and Foe, explain two beneficial uses of fire and two precautions to prevent fire hazards at home.
Answer:

Fire is a friend when used carefully, but it can become a foe if uncontrolled. Here are two beneficial uses of fire:

  • Cooking: Fire provides heat to prepare food, making it safe and tasty to eat.
  • Heating: In cold climates, fire keeps homes warm and comfortable.

To prevent fire hazards at home, follow these two precautions:

  • Avoid leaving flammable materials like paper or cloth near open flames.
  • Always supervise children around fire sources like stoves or candles.

Understanding fire's dual nature helps us use it wisely while staying safe.

Question 19:
Read the following case:
In a village, people use fire for cooking, warmth, and festivals. However, one day, a small fire spreads uncontrollably due to dry leaves and wind, damaging several huts.
Based on this, answer:
(a) How is fire a friend in this scenario?
(b) How does it become a foe?
Answer:

(a) Fire is a friend here because it helps villagers in daily activities like cooking food and keeping warm during cold weather. It is also used in festivals for rituals or celebrations, bringing people together.

(b) Fire becomes a foe when it spreads uncontrollably due to dry leaves and strong winds, causing destruction. In this case, it burned huts, showing how dangerous it can be if not handled carefully.

Additional Tip: Always keep water or sand nearby when using fire outdoors to prevent accidents.

Question 20:
Imagine a school project where students demonstrate fire safety measures.
(a) List two precautions to prevent fire accidents.
(b) Explain why these precautions are important.
Answer:

(a) Two precautions are:

  • Keeping flammable materials like paper or cloth away from fire sources.
  • Never leaving a burning candle or stove unattended.

(b) These precautions are important because:
- Flammable materials catch fire easily, increasing risks.
- Unattended fires can spread quickly, leading to accidents or injuries.

Remember: Fire safety is everyone's responsibility. Small steps can prevent big disasters.

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