Summary: Travellers are shocked to discover that oxygen masks on planes are not connected to air tanks, but instead use oxygen generators known as “oxygen candles”. These candles release oxygen gas when burned, providing a reliable source of oxygen during emergencies.
How do oxygen masks on planes work? Travellers stunned to discover what they are connected to and it’s not an air tank
In a surprising revelation, travellers have learned that the oxygen masks on planes are not connected to air tanks. Instead, they use oxygen generators known as “oxygen candles”. These candles release oxygen gas when burned, providing a reliable source of oxygen during emergencies. The oxygen candles are designed to last long enough for the pilot to descend to a safe altitude. This information has left many travellers stunned and intrigued by the science behind the masks.
The Science Behind Oxygen Masks on Planes
When the oxygen masks drop down during an emergency, a firing pin ignites the oxygen candle, which heats up to over 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme heat causes sodium chlorate, stored as a solid in the candle, to decompose into oxygen gas and table salt. The oxygen then passes through a filter and down the tubing to the mask, where passengers can breathe it in. The oxygen candles are designed to provide enough oxygen until the plane reaches a safe altitude.
Reassurance and Surprised Reactions
Although the smoky smell from the oxygen candles may be alarming, travellers need not worry. The oxygen generators, often referred to as “oxygen candles”, are a safe and reliable source of oxygen during emergencies. Many viewers of a viral video explaining this process expressed their surprise and appreciation for the newfound knowledge. Some were relieved to learn that the masks are not connected to potentially dangerous oxygen tanks, while others found the science behind the oxygen candles fascinating.
In essence, this revelation about the oxygen masks on planes has left travellers with a better understanding of how they work and a sense of reassurance in their reliability during emergencies.
