Question

why is it important to work in the fume hood during this step? a) methanol gets very volatile at high temperature b) produced biodiesel is explosive c) the magnetic stirrer splashes base in all directions d) sodium hydroxide is flammable

Explanation:

A fume hood is used to protect against hazardous vapors. Methanol being volatile at high - temperature means its vapors can be harmful if inhaled. Biodiesel is not highly explosive under normal conditions in this context. A magnetic stirrer splashing base can be managed with other safety measures like wearing protective gear, not necessarily just using a fume hood. Sodium hydroxide is caustic, not flammable. So, working in a fume hood is important mainly due to the volatile nature of methanol.

Answer:

a) Methanol gets very volatile at high temperature