What does a vapor density greater than one indicate?

A vapor density greater than one indicates that the chemical is heavier than air. As a result, it will tend to settle or accumulate in low-lying areas. This characteristic is crucial in emergency response situations, as it impacts how responders should approach containment and evacuation strategies. For instance, if a hazardous material is released, responders need to be aware that those vapors could gather in basements, pits, or other depressions, creating potential hazards for individuals who may enter those areas.

In contrast, the other options do not directly relate to the implications of vapor density. The rate of evaporation is influenced by other factors such as the chemical’s volatility rather than its vapor density. Further, the potential hazards at high temperatures or flammability are separate properties that depend on different physical and chemical characteristics of the substance. Therefore, understanding vapor density and its effects is key to managing emergencies involving hazardous materials.