What is the primary use of a fume hood in a laboratory?

• A. To store samples
• B. To ventilate hazardous fumes
• C. To conduct experiments safely
• D. To recycle materials

Answer: (B)

The primary use of a fume hood in a laboratory is to ventilate hazardous fumes. Fume hoods are designed to protect laboratory personnel from inhaling toxic or harmful vapors, gases, and aerosols that may be generated during experiments. When chemical reactions produce hazardous substances or when working with volatile materials, the fume hood creates a safe working environment by drawing these fumes away from the user and exhausting them outside the building or into a filtration system. This reduces the risk of exposure and creates a safer laboratory atmosphere.

While conducting experiments safely and storing samples can occur within a fume hood, those are secondary functions. The main purpose centers on the effective ventilation of potentially dangerous fumes, ensuring that the health and safety of laboratory workers are prioritized. Additionally, recycling materials does not relate to the main function of a fume hood, as it is primarily focused on ventilation and containment of hazardous substances.