Potassium chlorate should not be used as a fire extinguisher, as it is a reactive compound that can exacerbate fire conditions rather than suppress them. The discussion highlights the differences in behavior between elemental metals and their compounds, using sodium as an example. Sodium reacts violently with water, while sodium chloride remains inert. Therefore, using potassium chlorate in fire suppression is not advisable due to its potential to ignite rather than extinguish flames.
PREREQUISITESChemists, fire safety professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the chemical interactions involved in fire suppression and the risks associated with reactive compounds.