Toxic substances
Toxic Substances
Toxic substances (pronunciation: /ˈtɒksɪk ˈsʌbstənsɪz/) are materials that can cause harm to living organisms when they come into contact or are ingested. The term "toxic" is derived from the Latin "toxicum," which means "poison," and the Greek "toxikon," which refers to "arrow poison."
Types of Toxic Substances
There are several types of toxic substances, including:
- Chemical substances: These are substances that have a chemical composition or potential. They can be either natural or man-made. Examples include pesticides, herbicides, and heavy metals.
- Biological toxins: These are toxins produced by living organisms, often for defense against predators. Examples include venom from snakes or spiders, and toxins produced by bacteria or fungi.
- Radiological substances: These are substances that emit radiation, which can be harmful to living organisms. Examples include uranium, plutonium, and other radioactive elements.
Effects of Toxic Substances
The effects of toxic substances can vary greatly depending on the type of substance, the amount of exposure, and the individual's health status. Effects can range from minor irritations to severe health problems such as cancer, organ damage, and death.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention of exposure to toxic substances is the best way to avoid their harmful effects. This can be achieved through proper handling and disposal of toxic substances, use of protective equipment, and adherence to safety regulations.
Treatment for exposure to toxic substances depends on the type of substance and the severity of the exposure. It may include removal of the substance, use of antidotes, and supportive care.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Toxic substances
- Wikipedia's article - Toxic substances
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