Which statement correctly identifies chromium VI's primary health risk?

Which statement correctly identifies chromium VI's primary health risk?

• A. It has no significant health hazards
• B. It is primarily a cosmetic hazard
• C. It is highly toxic and carcinogenic
• D. It is only hazardous when ingested

Answer: (C)

The main idea to grasp is that chromium VI poses its primary health risk through its high toxicity and carcinogenic potential, especially via inhalation. Cr(VI) compounds are recognized as human carcinogens, with inhalation of dust or fumes in occupational settings being a major route of exposure that markedly increases lung cancer risk over time. Skin contact can cause irritation or ulcers, and ingestion can be hazardous, but the defining danger that makes chromium VI most concerning is its carcinogenicity. So describing it as highly toxic and carcinogenic best captures the key health risk.

The main idea to grasp is that chromium VI poses its primary health risk through its high toxicity and carcinogenic potential, especially via inhalation. Cr(VI) compounds are recognized as human carcinogens, with inhalation of dust or fumes in occupational settings being a major route of exposure that markedly increases lung cancer risk over time. Skin contact can cause irritation or ulcers, and ingestion can be hazardous, but the defining danger that makes chromium VI most concerning is its carcinogenicity. So describing it as highly toxic and carcinogenic best captures the key health risk.