What should be grabbed to neutralize a lead-acid battery spill?

Neutralizing a lead-acid battery spill is best accomplished using baking soda. Lead-acid batteries contain sulfuric acid, which is corrosive and poses risks to both health and the environment. Baking soda, being a mild alkaline substance, can effectively neutralize the acidic nature of the spill. When baking soda comes into contact with sulfuric acid, a chemical reaction occurs, reducing the acidity of the solution and rendering it safer to handle.

Using baking soda ensures that the area can be cleaned with reduced risk of chemical burns or inhalation of harmful vapors. It also facilitates safer disposal of the materials involved. In contrast, other options like sand can absorb the spill but do not neutralize the acidity, while vinegar, despite being an acid, is not effective for neutralizing sulfuric acid and could potentially exacerbate the situation. Water can dilute the acid but does not safely neutralize it and can spread the corrosive liquid further, making the problem worse rather than solving it.