International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Chemistry Practice Exam

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What is one advantage of using helium in balloons instead of hydrogen?

Helium is lighter than hydrogen
Helium is cheaper than hydrogen
Helium is not flammable
Helium can lift more weight than hydrogen

The correct answer is: Helium is not flammable

Helium is not flammable, which is a significant advantage when compared to hydrogen. Hydrogen gas is highly flammable and poses a serious safety risk due to its tendency to ignite easily in the presence of an ignition source. This characteristic makes hydrogen balloons hazardous, as any spark or flame could lead to an explosion. In contrast, helium is an inert gas that does not support combustion; it does not react with other substances, making it a much safer option for use in balloons. This property contributes to the widespread preference for helium in various applications, including party balloons and scientific uses, where safety is a paramount concern.