The label CORROSIVE on a chemical container indicates
A: That the material is an oxidant
B: That contact destroys living tissue as well as equipment
C: That the material can degrade rapidly upon exposure to air
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is:
B: That contact destroys living tissue as well as equipment.
Explanation:
The label “CORROSIVE” on a chemical container indicates that the substance can cause severe damage to living tissue (such as skin, eyes, and mucous membranes) as well as materials and equipment upon contact. Corrosive chemicals can attack and break down the surface of materials, including metals, plastics, and human tissues, by causing chemical reactions that lead to degradation or destruction.
Chemical Properties:
Corrosive substances typically include strong acids (like sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid) and strong bases (such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide). These chemicals can cause irreversible damage to biological tissues, leading to burns, tissue necrosis, or permanent harm if they come in contact with the skin, eyes, or other tissues. The impact on equipment is also significant because corrosive chemicals can corrode metals, erode surfaces, and even break down containers made from certain plastics or rubber.
Precautions:
Because of the potential danger posed by corrosive materials, safety precautions are crucial when handling such substances. Protective gear such as gloves, goggles, face shields, and lab coats should always be worn, and the chemicals should be stored and handled in well-ventilated areas, ideally with access to emergency eyewash stations and safety showers. Spills should be dealt with immediately and carefully, following proper procedures to minimize harm.
Other Options:
- A: That the material is an oxidant refers to chemicals that can support combustion or increase the rate of burning of other materials. While some corrosive substances may also be oxidizing agents, the label “CORROSIVE” specifically relates to the tissue and material destruction aspect.
- C: That the material can degrade rapidly upon exposure to air refers to chemicals that are highly reactive with oxygen, but this is not what “CORROSIVE” indicates. It focuses on the destructive nature of the material itself rather than its reactivity with air.
Thus, “CORROSIVE” denotes a risk of causing severe damage to living organisms and materials, requiring specific handling and safety measures.