Which type of spores can potentially cause allergic reactions?

The correct answer is viable spores. Viable spores are capable of germination and can potentially lead to the proliferation of mold or other fungi, which can provoke allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. When these spores are inhaled, they can trigger the immune system, causing various allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and asthma-like reactions.

Non-viable spores, on the other hand, lack the ability to germinate and reproduce. While they can still be present in the environment and contribute to allergic responses, they do not have the same potential to cause reactions as viable spores do since they do not represent an active threat to human health in terms of reproductive capability.

The reference to "chemical spores" is misleading, as spores themselves are biological entities and not chemical in nature. Thus, this option does not pertain to the context of allergic reactions caused by actual spores. Understanding the difference between viable and non-viable spores is crucial in microbial remediation and assessing health risks associated with mold in environmental settings.