Question:

The compound that is used in smoke screens is:

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Calcium phosphide produces phosphine gas on reaction with moisture, and phosphine forms dense smoke on burning in air.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • \(\mathrm{Mg_3N_2}\)
  • \(\mathrm{MgO}\)
  • \(\mathrm{NaN_3}\)
  • \(\mathrm{Ca_3P_2}\)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Identify the compound used in smoke screens.
Calcium phosphide \[ \mathrm{Ca_3P_2} \] is used in smoke screens.

Step 2: Reason for its use.
When calcium phosphide reacts with moisture, it produces phosphine gas: \[ \mathrm{Ca_3P_2+6H_2O \rightarrow 3Ca(OH)_2+2PH_3} \] Phosphine undergoes spontaneous combustion in air and produces dense white fumes, which form a smoke screen.

Step 3: Analyze other options.
\[ \mathrm{Mg_3N_2} \] is magnesium nitride and is not used for smoke screens.
\[ \mathrm{MgO} \] is magnesium oxide and is mainly a refractory material.
\[ \mathrm{NaN_3} \] is sodium azide, used in airbags.

Step 4: Final conclusion.
Hence, the compound used in smoke screens is \[ \boxed{\mathrm{Ca_3P_2}} \]
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