What can happen if flammable gases accumulate in the presence of an air compressor?

When flammable gases accumulate in the presence of an air compressor, they may ignite from sparks or heat. This is a critical concern because air compressors generate heat and can produce sparks during operation, which is enough to ignite any flammable gases present in the environment. The accumulation of flammable gases creates a hazardous situation where even a minor spark can lead to a fire or explosion, posing significant risks to safety and equipment. This is why proper ventilation and monitoring for gas leaks are essential when working with air compressors in environments where flammable gases might be present.

The other options do not accurately reflect the dangers associated with flammable gases near an air compressor. For instance, while flammable gases can technically be compressed, this fact does not mitigate the risk of ignition or explosion. Similarly, flammable gases do not become less flammable simply due to compression, and they certainly do not disperse quickly without hazard when concentrated, particularly in confined or poorly ventilated spaces.