Skin contact with an alkaline material is most likely to cause __________.

Skin contact with an alkaline material is most likely to cause burns, often referred to as chemical burns. Alkaline substances can cause significant damage to the skin and underlying tissues due to their high pH levels. When these materials come into contact with the skin, they can lead to saponification, which is a process where fats in the skin are converted into soap, resulting in the breakdown of tissue. This chemical reaction can penetrate deeper than just the surface layer of the skin, leading to severe injury.

Understanding the nature of alkaline materials helps emphasize the importance of appropriate protective measures when handling such substances. The possibility of tissue injury underscores the need for prompt and thorough rinsing with water to mitigate damage and initiate immediate first aid.