What is the purpose of a gas leak detector?

The purpose of a gas leak detector is to alert individuals to the presence of a gas leak. These devices are crucial for safety, as they can identify the presence of flammable or toxic gases in an area, allowing people to take immediate action to evacuate or investigate the source of the leak. This early detection helps to prevent potential hazards such as explosions, fires, or harmful exposure to toxic gases.

Other options, while related to gas systems, do not accurately describe the primary function of a gas leak detector. For instance, measuring tank pressure is a different function that relates to the maintenance and monitoring of gas storage, while controlling gas flow pertains more to the regulation of gas in specific appliances to ensure safe and efficient operation. Preventing ignition is also an important safety aspect, but it is not a direct function of leak detection devices. Thus, the defining role of the gas leak detector is to provide an alert regarding the presence of gas, thereby enhancing safety for individuals in its vicinity.