American Chemical Society (ACS) Laboratory Safety Practice Test 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Mastering Lab Safety Procedures!

THF (Tetrahydrofuran) is known for its unique properties that contribute to its hazardous nature, especially concerning exposure. One significant concern with THF is that it can cause a delayed pain reaction upon skin contact. This means that an individual may initially feel no discomfort, but hours later experience pain and possibly significant irritation or chemical burns. This delayed reaction can lead to a false sense of security, resulting in prolonged exposure that can exacerbate skin damage and complicate treatment.

In contrast, the other solvents listed either do not have this delayed pain effect or are less hazardous overall. Water is non-toxic and typically safe, making it an unlikely candidate for hazardous effects. Hexane and acetone, while they have their own risks, do not exhibit the same delayed pain reaction characteristic that THF does. Thus, THF stands out as particularly hazardous due to its potential to cause delayed reactions, emphasizing the importance of using appropriate protective equipment and being aware of the properties of the chemicals one is working with.