Which volatile liquid has the widest explosive range?

The volatile liquid with the widest explosive range among the given options is acetone. Acetone has a flammable range of approximately 2.6% to 12.8% in air, which allows it to ignite and explode over a broader concentration range compared to other substances listed.

Understanding explosive range is crucial for safety protocols in firefighting and hazardous material handling because it indicates the limits of concentration at which a vapor can ignite in the presence of an ignition source. Wider explosive ranges imply a higher risk of ignition under varying conditions, making acetone particularly dangerous in environments where it may evaporate and form vapors.

The other liquids mentioned—gasoline, kerosene, and ethanol—have narrower flammable ranges, which indicates they can only create explosive mixtures within specific concentration limits. This characteristic of acetone highlights its potential hazards and the importance of proper storage and handling procedures to minimize explosive risks.