Which form of chemical degradation is used in association with acids and bases?

• A. Oxidation
• B. Neutralization
• C. Polymerization
• D. Fermentation

Answer: (B)

Neutralization is the chemical process that directly involves acids and bases by reacting them to form water and a salt, pushing the solution toward a neutral pH. This is the method used to handle acidic or basic hazards, turning a corrosive substance into a less reactive form. Oxidation changes the electron balance of species and isn’t specifically about acid–base balance. Polymerization is about linking monomers into polymers. Fermentation is a biological process that converts sugars into other compounds. So neutralization is the option that best fits how acids and bases interact to reduce hazard.