What is the main purpose of using a desiccator in chemistry?

Using a desiccator in chemistry serves the primary purpose of maintaining a dry environment to prevent moisture absorption. Desiccators are often used to store hygroscopic (water-absorbing) materials, ensuring that these substances remain free from water vapor that could alter their chemical properties or reactions. By creating a low-humidity environment, the desiccator preserves the integrity of moisture-sensitive compounds and maintains accurate results in experiments and analyses.

In contrast, the other options reflect functions that are not typically associated with desiccators. Storing substances at high temperatures is not advisable in desiccators, as they are designed more for temperature stability rather than heat retention. While desiccators can indirectly support chemical reactions by ensuring dry conditions, they do not actively facilitate reactions themselves. Additionally, desiccators are not designed to efficiently cool down substances; their role is about moisture control rather than temperature management.