Which of the following is a dangerous characteristic of hydrogen sulfide?

Hydrogen sulfide is indeed dangerous due to its corrosive nature, particularly to concrete and metal. When released into the environment, hydrogen sulfide can lead to significant structural damage in wastewater treatment facilities and sewage systems, as it reacts with materials commonly used in their construction. This corrosive property can result in costly repairs and safety hazards, as weakened infrastructure can lead to leaks or failures.

While flammability is a concern with hydrogen sulfide, its primary hazardous characteristic in the context of wastewater treatment is its corrosive effect, which poses a direct threat to equipment and the integrity of treatment systems. Understanding this property is crucial for implementing proper safety measures and material selections in locations where hydrogen sulfide is present.

In contrast, hydrogen sulfide is not non-toxic, and it is indeed dangerous at certain concentrations, though it is not colorless and odorless; it is typically characterized by a distinct rotten egg smell at low concentrations. Recognizing these properties is essential for working safely in environments where hydrogen sulfide may be encountered.