Which of the following gases is known to smell like garlic?

Acetylene is known to have a distinct odor that can be described as similar to that of garlic. This characteristic smell is an important identifying feature of the gas, which is used widely in welding and cutting applications due to its high flame temperature when burned in oxygen.

Understanding the odors of various gases is crucial for safety and identification. In challenging situations, the distinctive smell of gases like acetylene can provide an early warning to users, allowing them to take necessary precautions or evacuate the area.

In contrast, ammonia has a sharp, pungent smell that can be mistaken for a different kind of irritant, while chlorine has a strong, bleach-like odor. Oxygen is colorless and odorless, making it undetectable by smell. Each of these gases has its own unique properties and potential hazards, but in this context, acetylene’s garlic-like odor is the key distinguishing factor.