HAZMAT CDL Practice Test

What hazardous material is considered dangerous when wet?

1. Sodium

2. Battery Fluid

3. Anthrax Virus

4. Uranium

The correct answer is: Sodium

Sodium is considered dangerous when wet because it is a highly reactive metal that can ignite spontaneously upon contact with water. When sodium interacts with water, it undergoes a vigorous chemical reaction, producing sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The hydrogen gas can ignite and explode, creating significant hazards. This characteristic makes sodium particularly dangerous in environments where it may come into contact with moisture. The other materials listed do not share this specific property regarding reactivity with water. Battery fluid can be corrosive but doesn't pose the same immediate explosive risk when wet. The anthrax virus is a biological hazard, but it does not have a hazardous reaction with water. Uranium is a radioactive material but is not particularly reactive with water under normal conditions. This distinction highlights the unique nature of sodium concerning its dangers when wet.