Can an interrupting chamber contain gases or liquids that have a sufficient dielectric strength to quench an arc?

The correct answer is that an interrupting chamber can indeed contain gases or liquids that have a sufficient dielectric strength to quench an arc. The fundamental purpose of an interrupting chamber in electrical equipment, such as circuit breakers, is to extinguish the arc that forms when a circuit is interrupted.

The dielectric strength of a medium, whether it be a gas or a liquid, is crucial in determining its effectiveness in quenching an arc. Both gases and liquids can provide the necessary insulation properties to prevent the arc from sustaining itself. For example, gases like sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) or air can be effective as they can absorb and dissipate energy from the arc. Liquids, such as oil or other dielectric fluids, also serve this purpose by providing a barrier that can cool the arc and suppress it.

This flexibility in using either medium allows designers to choose the most suitable material based on the specific application requirements, such as the operating voltage, environmental conditions, and desired performance characteristics. Thus, the inclusion of both gases and liquids as viable options for arc quenching enhances the functionality and safety of interrupting devices.