Environment, health and safety

In storing chemicals, why are substances that may react violently when mixed kept apart?

  1. ATo prevent heat generation, toxic gas release and fires from mixing
  2. BTo make them look uniform
  3. CTo lower storage costs
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Answer: A. To prevent heat generation, toxic gas release and fires from mixing

Acids and bases, oxidizers and combustibles and similar combinations can generate intense heat, release toxic gases or start fires when mixed. They are stored in separate compartments or with spill containment so they do not mix even if they leak.

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