What steps should you take when conducting an experiment with strong acids?

When conducting an experiment with strong acids, it is crucial to always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and use a fume hood for several important reasons. Strong acids can cause severe burns to the skin and damage to the eyes, so wearing protective eyewear, gloves, and lab coats serves as the first line of defense against chemical exposure. The fumes released by strong acids can also be harmful if inhaled, making the use of a fume hood essential. The fume hood helps to ventilate and remove hazardous vapors from your breathing zone, minimizing the risk of inhalation.

In a laboratory setting, prioritizing safety protocols such as wearing PPE and working in properly ventilated areas protects not just the individual conducting the experiment but also those nearby. This is a standard practice in laboratory environments to ensure safe handling of corrosive and potentially harmful substances.