Explain how the concept of lower and upper flammability limits influences the safe handling and storage of flammable gases, providing examples of how these limits are considered in practical scenarios.

Flammability limits, specifically the lower flammability limit (LFL) and the upper flammability limit (UFL), are critical parameters that dictate the safe handling and storage of flammable gases. These limits define the concentration range of a flammable gas in air within which combustion can occur. The LFL is the minimum concentration of a flammable gas in air that will support combustion. Below this concentration, there is insufficient fuel to sustain a flame. The UFL, on the other hand, is the maximum concentration of a flammable gas in air above which combustion will not occur because there is insufficient oxygen to sustain a flame. The region between these two limits, where combustion is possible, is known as the flammable or explosive range. Understanding and adhering to these limits is essential for preventing accidental fires and explosions. Practical applications of flammability limits are numerous and fundamental in industry. For example, consider the storage of methane, a primary component of natural gas, which has a specific LFL and UFL. In a gas storage facility, maintaining gas concentrations outside the flammable range is ....