Final answer:
Certain metals, particularly silver, crack when exposed to sulfur compounds due to the formation of tarnish or corrosion. Sulfuric acid is a corrosive substance that can decompose organic materials and sulfur compounds can be released from the combustion of sulfur-based fuels, posing a risk to both materials and health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Certain materials, specifically metals like silver, crack when exposed to sulfur compounds, such as grease or oil. This is due to the chemical reactivity of sulfur compounds with the metal, forming tarnish or corrosion on the surface, which can result in the cracking of the material. The process is similar to the reaction that creates dark spots or tarnish (silver sulfide) on silver objects when they are exposed to sulfur compounds in the air. It's also important to note that exposure to corrosive substances like sulfuric acid can rapidly decompose organic materials, such as cotton, through dehydration.
Household products that contain sulfur compounds can pose a risk, so it's important to handle such items, like batteries containing sulfuric acid, with care to avoid damage to materials and potential harm from chemical reactions. This also includes being cautious of the combustion of sulfur-based fuels like diesel and coal, which can release harmful sulfur compounds into the environment.