Why can dry chemical extinguishers be effectively used on Class C fires?

Dry chemical extinguishers are effective on Class C fires primarily because dry chemicals do not conduct electricity. Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment, and using an extinguisher that conducts electricity could create severe hazards, including electrocution. Dry chemical agents, such as monopropellant powders, are non-conductive and can smother the flames without creating a risk of electrical shock. Their ability to interrupt the chemical reaction of the fire while remaining safe in the presence of electricity makes them suitable for such scenarios.

Other options do not accurately describe the properties of dry chemicals in relation to electrical fires. For example, saying that dry chemicals are chemically similar to water overlooks their specific action in interrupting the fire without conducting electricity. Additionally, the notion that dry chemicals never touch the fuel is misleading; they do come into contact with the fuel to effectively extinguish the fire. The claim regarding dry chemicals being electrically static does not apply to their extinguishing properties in the context of Class C fires.