The Modern Chemistry LabSafety First! |
What makes strong acids and bases dangerous to work with in the laboratory? |
Strong acids, like nitric acid, are strong oxidizing agents and can cause severe burns on your skin. Strong bases, like sodium hydroxide, can also cause burns as well as nerve damage. Strong acids and bases destroy your cells by reacting with the membranes, proteins, and other components that make up your cells. They are also dangerous to your eyes and can permanently damage your vision.