What is the primary use of a "Containment Boom"?

The primary use of a containment boom is to contain and prevent the spread of spills on water surfaces. These booms are typically deployed on the water's surface to create a barrier that encircles the spilled material, thereby preventing it from dispersing further into the body of water. This is crucial in managing hazardous materials that could harm aquatic ecosystems and human activities.

Containment booms are designed to float on water and are effective in situations involving oil spills or other hazardous liquid leaks. They are an essential tool in spill response scenarios as they allow containment efforts to begin promptly, helping to minimize environmental impact and facilitating easier cleanup operations. Their design ensures that while they contain spills, they do not absorb materials or chemically neutralize them, which sets them apart from other options in the list.