Is there a reason why people use N2O instead of straight O2?
I would think that the O2 would be more effective. Is it price?
Thanks
TMS

Originally posted by TheMadScientist
Is there a reason why people use N2O instead of straight O2?
I would think that the O2 would be more effective. Is it price?
Thanks
TMS

Too dangerous. One of the advantages of N2O is that the Nitrogen doesn't separate from the Oxygen until somewhere around 550 degrees Farenheit. Which allows it to be relatively safe and non flammable until it reaches the combustion chamber and achieves those temps.


-Andy

2 words... Boom! Ok, so it was one word... But pure oxygen is just ridiculously flammable and explosive just about anytime and anywhere. And yes, price would be an issue too if you're going to use liquid oxygen.

In order to get similar oxygen density you would need to use liquid oxygen, with all the nightmares associated with it. To get the same oxygen density with compressed oxygen gas, you would need to compress it to around 2000*0.6*14.7 psi = 17,000 psi. Not safe or feasible in a consumer automobile.

Edit: Pure oxygen is not flammable. It is, however, an excellent oxidizer. In the presence of heat and fuel it will rapidly increase the oxidation rate over air at atmospheric pressure--a fire will burn much faster and hotter.