Why is it necessary to handle dry ice with gloves?

Handling dry ice with gloves is essential because it is extremely cold, reaching temperatures around -78.5 degrees Celsius (-109.3 degrees Fahrenheit). This extreme cold can cause frostbite or cold burns upon direct skin contact, which can lead to severe injuries. By using gloves, individuals significantly reduce the risk of skin damage while safely managing the substance.

The other options pertain to different aspects of handling materials, but they are not primary concerns when working with dry ice. For instance, while dry ice can produce carbon dioxide gas as it sublimates, which can create a hazard in confined spaces, the primary reason to use gloves is to protect against the extreme cold rather than toxicity or explosive risks.