What can occur if either of the seal rings on a torch are missing or damaged?

The correct answer is gas leakage. When either of the seal rings on a torch is missing or damaged, it compromises the integrity of the gas pathway. Seal rings are critical components that help maintain a secure and airtight connection between different sections of the torch. If these rings are not functioning properly, gas can escape from the joints where pressure should be contained.

Gas leakage poses safety hazards, including fire risks and the potential for insufficient fuel delivery to the flame, which can lead to an ineffective burning process. It is essential to ensure that seal rings are intact and functioning to prevent such dangerous situations from occurring. Flashback is a serious concern in torch operation, but it is more closely related to improper flame control and combustion processes, rather than directly caused by the state of the seal rings.