Which of the following is a critical factor in the handling of explosives?

Temperature sensitivity is a critical factor in the handling of explosives due to its significant impact on the stability and safety of these materials. Explosives can react differently under varying temperature conditions; for instance, increased temperatures can lead to degradation, reduction in performance, or even unintended detonation. This sensitivity necessitates strict temperature control during storage, transportation, and use, ensuring that explosives remain stable and safe throughout their lifecycle.

Temperature sensitivity affects how explosives should be stored, the type of containers employed, and the environmental conditions under which they are handled. Understanding this factor is essential for personnel involved in munitions systems to mitigate risks and maintain safety protocols effectively.

The other options, such as cost, color, and size, do not play as critical a role in the actual handling and safety of explosives. While cost can influence decision-making in procurement, it does not directly affect the properties or handling protocols necessary for ensuring safety and stability in explosives. Color can help in identification but does not impact the handling requirements. Size may influence transportation logistics but is not as crucial as temperature sensitivity in the context of explosive safety.