What is the purpose of describing physical properties in the MSDS?

The purpose of describing physical properties in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is primarily to understand how a substance interacts under various conditions. This includes information about the chemical's boiling point, melting point, solubility, reactivity, and stability, among other characteristics. These properties are crucial for assessing how the chemical will behave in different environments, such as during storage, handling, and potential exposure scenarios. Understanding these interactions helps ensure safe use and emergency preparedness, as it informs users about potential hazards and the appropriate safety measures to take.

Other choices, while they may seem relevant, do not align with the primary focus of the MSDS. For instance, marketing value and cost-effectiveness are outside the scope of safety and handling information intended for users. Comparisons with other chemicals, although potentially useful, are secondary to the essential need for understanding how the chemical itself behaves in various conditions. Thus, knowing how it interacts in various situations is critical for safety and effective risk management.