Why should acids never be stored in metal containers?

Acids are highly corrosive substances, meaning they can damage materials, especially metals. When acids come into contact with metal containers, they can initiate a reaction that leads to the degradation of the metal. This corrosive action can result in the release of harmful gases, leakage of the acid, and ultimately, failure of the container, posing significant safety and environmental hazards.

The corrosivity of acids is a fundamental reason for their proper storage. Unlike other potential hazards, such as toxicity or reactivity with other substances, the primary concern with acid storage is the direct damage they can do to metal. Hence, using appropriate materials, like glass or certain plastics that are resistant to corrosion, is essential to ensure safety and prevent accidents when storing acids.