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

What causes paint abrasion?

1. Exposure to sunlight

2. Mechanical friction

3. Water damage

4. Temperature changes

The correct answer is: Mechanical friction

Paint abrasion primarily occurs due to mechanical friction. This involves any activity where surfaces come into contact and rub against each other, leading to the deterioration of the paint layer. Common scenarios that promote this type of wear include the movement of furniture against walls, the constant opening and closing of doors, and the action of cleaning surfaces. While factors like exposure to sunlight, water damage, and temperature changes can contribute to the degradation of paint over time, they do not directly cause abrasion in the manner that mechanical friction does. Sunlight can lead to fading and brittleness, while water damage can cause peeling or blistering, and temperature fluctuations can lead to expansion and contraction. However, it is the physical action of friction that ultimately causes the paint to wear away, making mechanical friction the correct cause of paint abrasion.