Why should dry chemical burns only be treated with water if a large amount is available?

The correct reasoning for why dry chemical burns should only be treated with water if a large amount is available lies in the potential interactions between the chemical and water. Certain dry chemicals can react adversely with water, resulting in further irritation or exothermic reactions that may worsen the burn or create additional hazards. When a large amount of water is used, it can help dilute and wash away the chemical effectively without allowing the concentration of the chemical to remain high enough to cause more damage. This significant volume of water minimizes the risk of exacerbating the burn, which is why if only small amounts of water are available, it may not be safe to use it, as it could lead to an intensified burning sensation or reactions.

In contrast, the other choices do not address the specific reasons related to the potential harmful reactions with dry chemicals. For instance, while preventing the chemical from spreading, reducing heat, or enabling better absorption might seem beneficial in other contexts, they do not encapsulate the critical safety concern when treating dry chemical burns with water in limited quantities.