Water Distribution Grade 1 Certification Practice Exam

Which type of chemical classification can weaken or destroy skin and may be either acidic or basic?

1. Corrosive

2. Reactive

3. Flammable

4. Toxic

The correct answer is: Corrosive

The classification that can weaken or destroy skin, whether acidic or basic, is known as corrosive. Corrosive substances have the ability to cause significant damage to living tissue, including skin, upon contact. This can involve burning or scalding effects, which is why such materials are handled with extreme care. Corrosives include strong acids and bases, such as hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide, which can break down body tissues and result in serious injuries. Their harmful effects are categorized as corrosive because they not only react with the material they come into contact with but can also continue to degrade and damage underlying tissues. Understanding the properties of corrosive materials is crucial in water distribution and other fields where chemical handling is common. This knowledge is vital for ensuring safety protocols are in place to protect workers and the environment. The other classifications, while significant in their own right, do not specifically match the description of causing damage to skin. For instance, reactive materials may undergo vigorous reactions with other substances, and flammable materials are more focused on igniting under specific conditions. Toxic substances primarily create harmful effects through inhalation, ingestion, or absorption rather than through corrosivity.