Multiple choice

Which gas is commonly used in balloons and airships?

  1. Hydrogen

  2. Helium

  3. Carbon

  4. Hydrogen sulphide
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Helium is the preferred gas for modern balloons and airships because it is non-flammable and inert. Hydrogen, while more buoyant, is extremely flammable and dangerous (as demonstrated by the Hindenburg disaster). Helium provides safe lift with only slightly less buoyancy.

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