Why does a chunk of coal burn when ignited, whereas coal dust explodes?
a. The surface area-to-volume ratio of coal dust is much higher than that of a chunk of coal, making it more susceptible to rapid combustion.
b. Coal dust contains a higher concentration of flammable gases and is more easily dispersed in the air, leading to explosive combustion when ignited.
c. The composition and structure of coal dust make it more prone to chemical reactions that result in an explosion when exposed to a flame.
d. The lack of compactness and density in coal dust allows for a faster and more intense release of heat energy when ignited, leading to an explosive reaction.