What principle should be followed when storing chemicals in the laboratory?

• A. By color
• B. By reactivity
• C. By size
• D. By manufacturer

Answer: (B)

When storing chemicals in the laboratory, the principle of organizing them by reactivity is essential to ensure safety and prevent accidents. Different chemicals can interact in dangerous ways if placed too close to one another. For instance, strong acids should not be stored near bases, and oxidizers should be kept away from flammable materials. By categorizing chemicals based on their reactivity, laboratories can minimize the risk of chemical spills, reactions, or hazards that could arise from an improper combination of substances.

Other organizing methods, such as by color, size, or manufacturer, do not take into consideration the chemical properties and potential hazards associated with the substances. While organizing by color or size may provide some level of neatness, it does not enhance safety. Organizing by manufacturer can help track specific sources but fails to address how the chemicals may interact with each other. Thus, focusing on reactivity is the most important and effective principle for chemical storage in a laboratory setting.