Name the Gas used in the Holmes Signal and how

Q.Name the gas used in the Holmes signal and how?

• The Holmes signal is made up of a variety of chemicals that react with water to produce fumes.
• On the ocean surface, the Holmes signal is a vivid red coloured signal.
• A container filled with a combination of two chemicals that react with water to produce a signal is used to deliver a Holmes signal.
• The following is how calcium carbide and calcium phosphide react with water.

             CaC2+2H2O→C2H2+Ca(OH)2

             Ca3P2+6H2O→2PH3+3Ca(OH)2

• In this case, the interaction of Calcium carbide with water produces Acetylene, while the reaction of Calcium phosphide with water produces Phosphine.
• Now, when Phosphine comes into touch with air, it ignites instantly, and the acetylene created by Calcium Phosphide is likewise combustible and burns. As a result, we obtain vivid red flames, which are followed by odours. As a result, their combination is employed as a Holmes signal.
• A container loaded with a combination of Calcium carbide and Calcium phosphide is tossed into the water to provide a Holmes signal. Water from the ocean might react with the contents of the container since it has a hole in its surface. This results in a signal that can be plainly seen from a distance.
• Ammonia is a colourless and non-flammable gas. Despite the fact that phosphorus is a highly toxic gas, it is created when Holmes signals. Calcium carbide and calcium phosphide are not compatible.
• Phosphine is used to make smoke screens since it produces a lot of smoke. When a perforated container containing a combination of calcium carbide and calcium phosphide is thrown into the sea, it releases phosphine and acetylene.
• The phosphine that has been freed catches fire and ignites acetylene. These smouldering vapour act as a warning to approaching ships. This is known as the Holmes signal.