AI-generated practice question — model-generated for extra practice, not a previous-year CBSE board question.
Chips manufacturers flush bags with nitrogen gas to prevent oxidation of the chips (which causes them to become stale, rancid, or lose flavour).
Nitrogen helps because it is a chemically inert (non-reactive) gas — it does not react with the chips or the oils in them. By displacing oxygen inside the bag, nitrogen prevents the oxidation reaction that spoils the food.
This question tests knowledge of the chemical properties of nitrogen (inertness) and its practical application in food preservation. Key points examiners look for: (1) naming the problem — oxidation/spoilage/rancidity, and (2) explaining why nitrogen works — it is inert and displaces oxygen. These are the two marks. Don't just say "nitrogen is safe"; link it clearly to displacing oxygen and being non-reactive.