What is the primary hazard of lithium batteries once damaged?

The primary hazard of damaged lithium batteries encompasses a variety of significant risks, making the selection of all of the above a valid choice. When lithium batteries are compromised, they can indeed short circuit, leading to rapid discharge of energy. This can cause overheating and potentially result in a fire or explosion.

In addition to short circuiting, damaged lithium batteries also risk releasing toxic gases. Such gases can be harmful if inhaled and may pose environmental risks. Moreover, battery leakage is another critical issue; when a battery is damaged, it may leak electrolyte solutions, which can be corrosive and harmful to both humans and the environment.

All these hazards—short circuiting, release of toxic gases, and battery leakage—contribute collectively to the dangers associated with damaged lithium batteries, emphasizing why it is essential to consider all of them when assessing the risks involved.