Which of the following is true about hygroscopic substances?

Hygroscopic substances are characterized by their ability to readily absorb moisture from the air. This property makes them very useful in various applications, including the preservation of materials and controlling humidity. When these substances come into contact with moisture, they draw in water vapor, which can lead to a decrease in humidity in their immediate environment.

Understanding the behavior of hygroscopic materials is critical in funeral service when considering the preservation of remains or other materials that could be affected by humidity changes. On the other hand, substances that repel moisture would not be classified as hygroscopic, nor would those that emit moisture; these characteristics describe opposite behaviors. Similarly, the ability to vaporize easily does not align with the definition of hygroscopicity, as this property is focused on moisture absorption rather than vaporization.