Firefighter Practice Exam

Once ethylene oxide becomes contaminated, what type of chemical process may occur that can generate enough heat and pressure to rupture its containment?

1. Oxidation

2. Decomposition

3. Polymerization

4. Evaporation

The correct answer is: Polymerization

The correct answer is polymerization. Ethylene oxide is a highly reactive compound that can undergo a chemical process known as polymerization when it becomes contaminated. During polymerization, small molecules of ethylene oxide combine to form larger chains or networks called polymers. This process can release a significant amount of heat, leading to an exothermic reaction. If this reaction occurs in a confined environment, it can generate enough heat and pressure to potentially rupture the containment vessel. Understanding the conditions under which polymerization occurs is crucial for safe handling and storage of ethylene oxide. Unlike other processes listed, such as oxidation or decomposition, which involve the breakdown of a compound into smaller components or the reaction with oxygen, polymerization specifically involves the transformation of the monomer into a larger structure, which is critical in evaluating the risks associated with ethylene oxide exposure and contamination. This makes polymerization a significant concern in industrial settings where ethylene oxide is used or stored.