ACS Laboratory Safety Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive Exam Prep

Organic solvents can be potential hazards primarily because they can form explosive peroxides when exposed to air. This chemical reaction is particularly common with certain types of organic solvents, especially alkenes and ethers. Over time, exposure to oxygen can lead to the formation of these peroxides, which can be highly unstable and pose a serious risk of explosion if they are concentrated or subjected to heat or shock.

Understanding this characteristic is crucial for laboratory safety, as it emphasizes the need for proper storage and handling of organic solvents. For instance, solvents that are known to form peroxides should be stored in tightly sealed containers, kept away from light and heat sources, and periodically checked for signs of peroxide formation.

The other options do not accurately reflect significant hazards associated with organic solvents. Non-flammability is not a typical characteristic, as many organic solvents are, in fact, highly flammable. A high boiling point is not inherently a hazard, although it may influence the solvent's behavior under high-temperature conditions. Lastly, while some solvents may be colorless, many are not, and color alone does not determine a solvent's hazard potential. Thus, the formation of explosive peroxides is a critical safety concern to keep in mind when working with organic