Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Model Lead Based Paint Risk Assessor Practice Test

Which of the following is a qualitative means for detecting lead in paint?

1. Hydrochloric acid test

2. Lead testing kit

3. Sodium sulfide

4. Water testing strip

The correct answer is: Sodium sulfide

The option indicating sodium sulfide as a qualitative means for detecting lead in paint is appropriate because sodium sulfide reacts with lead to produce a characteristic color change, indicating the presence of lead. This reaction is often used in qualitative testing methods where the focus is on identifying whether lead is present rather than quantifying its concentration. Qualitative tests are designed to show whether a substance is present, which aligns with the role of sodium sulfide in detecting lead. When used in the appropriate conditions, the presence of lead can be visually confirmed through this color reaction, making it a straightforward and effective field test. While lead testing kits also provide qualitative results, they are often more sophisticated and may include complex processes or built-in quantitative measures. Hydrochloric acid tests primarily help to dissolve or react with lead-containing substances but aren't typically regarded as a straightforward qualitative approach. Likewise, water testing strips are used for measuring lead levels in water rather than paint, not serving the purpose of detecting lead in paint specifically. Thus, sodium sulfide stands out as a classic qualitative method specifically tailored for lead detection in paint samples.