Which type of chemical burn is generally more destructive to tissue, acid or alkali?

• A. Alkali burn
• B. Acid burn
• C. Thermal burn
• D. Radiation burn

Answer: (A)

Alkali burns tend to cause deeper, more extensive tissue destruction because alkaline substances promote liquefactive necrosis. They saponify fats and denature proteins, breaking down cell membranes and allowing the caustic agent to penetrate more deeply into tissues. This continued penetration can occur even after the initial exposure ends, worsening injury. Acids, by contrast, cause coagulative necrosis; they precipitate proteins and form an insulating eschar on the surface that can limit deeper penetration, though very strong acids can still be severe. The overall injury also depends on concentration and exposure time, but alkali burns are generally more destructive to tissue.