2. When welding,the gas that should never be released in a large amount as compressed air around flammable materials is __ a. oxygen b. argon c. carbon dioxide d. nitrogen

## Step 1<br />The problem is asking us to identify the gas that should never be released in large amounts as compressed air around flammable materials during welding. The options provided are oxygen, argon, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />We need to consider the properties of each gas in relation to flammability. Oxygen is a highly reactive gas that can easily support combustion, making it a potential hazard when used around flammable materials.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />On the other hand, argon, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen are inert gases. They do not support combustion and are therefore safer to use in environments where flammable materials are present.