Why is it important to keep a metal nozzle in contact with a metal filler neck while refueling?

• A. To prevent spillage
• B. To allow for better fuel flow
• C. To control static discharge
• D. To ensure the nozzle fits correctly

Answer: (C)

Keeping a metal nozzle in contact with a metal filler neck while refueling is crucial to control static discharge. When refueling, the movement of fuel can generate static electricity due to friction between the fuel and the surfaces inside the nozzle and filler neck. This static electricity can accumulate and, if not properly grounded, may cause a spark that could ignite vapors or fuel, leading to a fire hazard.

By ensuring that there is contact between the metal nozzle and the metal filler neck, a conductive path is established that allows the static charge to dissipate safely to the ground. This grounding mechanism greatly reduces the risk of static discharge igniting fuel vapors during the refueling process, making it a fundamental safety practice in handling flammable liquids.

The other options, while relevant to different aspects of refueling, do not directly pertain to the critical issue of static electricity and safety.