What distinguishes a sealed container from a closed container?

A sealed container is characterized by having an intact factory seal, which indicates that it is airtight and has not been opened since the manufacturing process. This level of integrity ensures that the contents are protected from contamination, loss, or exposure to external elements. The factory seal is an assurance that the product has not been tampered with and maintains its intended use and safety standards.

This distinction is important in various contexts, such as food safety, pharmaceuticals, or hazardous materials, where the integrity of the container can impact the quality and safety of the contents. In contrast, the other options do not accurately define or differentiate the characteristics of a sealed container. For instance, a closed container may not necessarily be sealed; it could simply have a lid or cover that can be removed without a tamper-proof seal. Thus, understanding the specific qualities of sealed versus closed containers is essential in practices involving storage and handling of various materials.