What is the primary property of oxidizers in Class 5?

The primary property of oxidizers in Class 5 is that they enhance combustion by supplying oxygen. Oxidizers are substances that promote or speed up the chemical reaction of combustion by releasing oxygen or other oxidizing substances when they decompose. This characteristic makes them highly reactive and capable of intensifying fires.

Oxidizers are essential in various industries, including pyrotechnics and explosives, where they play a crucial role in facilitating combustion. Understanding this property is particularly vital for first responders, as it informs them about the potential hazards when dealing with materials in this class, ensuring they can take proper precautions during incidents involving oxidizers.

The other choices do not accurately capture the main aspect of oxidizers. While some oxidizers may be solid materials, not all of them are, as they can also exist in liquid or gaseous states. The statement about serving as anesthetics does not pertain to oxidizers and is more relevant to certain chemical agents in other classifications. Finally, while some oxidizers can be corrosive to metals, this is not a defining characteristic of all oxidizers in Class 5; rather, their primary function is to enhance combustion.