Final answer:
The exclamation mark in GHS is a hazard symbol but not for oxidizers. Oxidizing agents are denoted by a different symbol and include substances like potassium dichromate, which can cause combustion.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), the exclamation mark pictogram represents a hazard category that includes a variety of health and physical hazards, such as skin and eye irritation, skin sensitization, narcotic effects, respiratory tract irritation, and certain hazardous effects to the ozone layer. However, it does not represent oxidizers. Oxidizing chemicals, such as potassium dichromate, are denoted by a different GHS symbol, which consists of a flame over a circle. These substances contain oxygen that may cause or intensify fire or cause other materials to combust.
Oxidants are chemicals that can accept electrons from other substances; they are typically in high oxidation states. In the presence of oxidants, electrons are transferred from other substances to the oxidant, thereby reducing it and often leading to combustion or oxidation reactions. Understanding the properties of oxidizing agents is crucial in chemistry, especially when dealing with reactions that involve the transfer of electrons.