What dangerous characteristic does the electrolyte in a nickel-cadmium battery possess?

The electrolyte in a nickel-cadmium battery contains potassium hydroxide, which is indeed caustic and can cause chemical burns upon contact with skin or eyes, making option "C" correct. The hazardous nature of this substance means that precautions must be taken to avoid skin contact and to handle it with care.

While the electrolyte is also corrosive, which could lead to property damage, this characteristic is not as immediately impactful as its potential to inflict severe burns on human tissue. It is also important to note that while nickel-cadmium batteries can emit gases under certain conditions, the risk of explosion is not a primary concern compared to the chemical burns the electrolyte can cause. Toxicity from inhalation might be a consideration in the context of general safety, but it is not the defining characteristic regarding immediate contact consequences.

Hence, the emphasis on severe burns as a primary risk highlights the necessity of handling nickel-cadmium batteries with appropriate safety protocols to prevent exposure to the electrolyte.