Why Can't You Use Mobile Phones at Gas Stations?

[KatherineRose]

When using a mobile phone, the phone's internal components generate extremely weak electrical discharges, producing tiny sparks. If the concentration of gasoline vapors in the air near a gas station is too high, these sparks could potentially trigger an explosion. Therefore, mobile phone usage is prohibited in the vicinity of gas stations. Additional Information: Gas stations have two most hazardous zones with exceptionally high concentrations of fuel-air mixtures. 1. The area around the above-ground breathing valve of underground storage tanks - when fuel is being pumped into these tanks, highly concentrated vapors are expelled through the breathing valve, creating a danger zone. 2. The vicinity of fuel filler nozzles - during vehicle refueling, gasoline vapors are displaced from fuel tanks, forming another danger zone. Both zones contain fuel-air mixtures at concentrations where, theoretically, mobile phone usage could cause ignition.