Which of the following is an example of a physical toxic agent?

Study for the Toxicology Test. Cover key concepts, exposure, and chemical hazards through multiple choice questions with explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is an example of a physical toxic agent?

Explanation:
Physical toxicants cause harm through energy transfer rather than chemical reactions. Radiation fits this because it delivers energy that can ionize atoms and damage cellular components, leading to DNA breaks, oxidative stress, and tissue injury. This effect comes from the energy deposited in tissues, not from a chemical interacting with biological targets. Pesticides are chemical agents that disrupt biological processes by biochemical inhibition or disruption. Bacteria and fungi are biological agents whose harm comes from infection or toxin production by living organisms. So, radiation is the example of a physical toxic agent.

Physical toxicants cause harm through energy transfer rather than chemical reactions. Radiation fits this because it delivers energy that can ionize atoms and damage cellular components, leading to DNA breaks, oxidative stress, and tissue injury. This effect comes from the energy deposited in tissues, not from a chemical interacting with biological targets. Pesticides are chemical agents that disrupt biological processes by biochemical inhibition or disruption. Bacteria and fungi are biological agents whose harm comes from infection or toxin production by living organisms. So, radiation is the example of a physical toxic agent.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy