Under what conditions is it typically safe to pour water on a chemical?

The most appropriate circumstances for pouring water on a chemical revolve around the guidance provided in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). The SDS includes specific information about each chemical’s properties, including how it reacts with water. For some substances, especially certain acids, bases, or reactive metals, adding water can lead to violent reactions such as splattering or even explosions. Therefore, consulting the SDS is critical, as it gives crucial safety instructions that ensure proper handling and prevent hazardous situations.

Other options do not take into account the essential guidance that the SDS provides about the specific chemical in question. Mixing chemicals without understanding their reactivity can be dangerous, and assuming that water is safe to use based on its composition or the appearance of the substance overlooks the importance of specific chemical compatibility and safety protocols.