What is the primary risk associated with thermal runaway in batteries?

The primary risk associated with thermal runaway in batteries is indeed a fire and explosion hazard. Thermal runaway occurs when a battery cell's temperature rises to the point where it causes a self-perpetuating cycle of increased heat and gas production, which can lead to the release of flammable gases and potential ignition sources. When this happens, it can result in significant fires or even explosions, especially in lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in many electronic devices and electric vehicles.

Understanding the dynamics of thermal runaway is crucial, as once the temperature begins to increase uncontrollably, it may result in cascading failures among other cells in the battery pack, exacerbating the fire or explosion hazard. This scenario emphasizes the importance of proper battery management systems and safety protocols to prevent overheating and mitigate risks associated with battery usage.

The other options, while they may represent valid concerns associated with batteries, do not adequately address the primary risk posed by thermal runaway. Chemical spillage can be a result of battery failure but is not the immediate threat in the context of thermal runaway. Mechanical failure may occur in some cases but is not a direct result of thermal runaway. Electromagnetic interference generally relates to the operational functionality of battery systems rather than a direct consequence of thermal runaway. Thus, the