Ace the ACS Lab Crash Course 2025 – Safety Savvy Awaits!

Ethyl ether is considered a higher risk solvent due to several properties that make it particularly hazardous in laboratory settings. One major concern is its flammability; ethyl ether has a low flash point, which means it can easily ignite in the presence of an open flame or spark, creating a fire hazard. Additionally, it can form explosive peroxides over time when exposed to air and light, which can lead to dangerous situations if not handled properly.

The volatility of ethyl ether also contributes to its risk profile. It can readily evaporate at room temperature, leading to the accumulation of flammable vapors that can pose a risk of inhalation and explosion. Furthermore, the inhalation of its vapors can lead to significant health effects, such as dizziness, headache, and respiratory issues.

In contrast, water is generally considered safe and non-flammable, serving as a universal solvent that is commonly used in lab settings. Petroleum ether, while also flammable, has a different toxicity and flammability profile compared to ethyl ether. Therefore, among these choices, ethyl ether stands out as the solvent that presents the highest risk due to its flammability, peroxide formation, and toxicity.