All Flashcards
What is LD50?
The dose of a substance that kills 50% of a test population.
Define 'contaminant'.
A substance or organism found where it shouldn't be, causing harm to health or the environment.
What are endocrine disruptors?
Chemicals that interfere with hormone systems.
Define dose-response study.
Studies showing how an organism responds to different doses of a chemical or drug.
What is methylmercury?
A form of mercury that builds up in fish.
What are VOCs?
Volatile Organic Compounds, colorless, flammable gas.
Why are dose-response studies important?
They help us find safe and effective levels of substances and minimize harm.
What does an S-shaped dose-response curve indicate?
Small dose increases initially yield small response increases, followed by a steep increase in response as the dose increases further.
Why is understanding the source of a contaminant important?
Understanding the source is key to mitigation and prevention strategies.
Why are children more vulnerable to lead exposure?
Lead causes central nervous system damage, and children's brains are still developing.
What is the significance of LD50 values?
LD50 values are a benchmark for toxicity and used to assess chemical hazards.
Why is heat a concern with BPA?
BPA leaching is more about temperature than the age of the container. Heat is the enemy!
What are the health effects of arsenic exposure?
Known human carcinogen (skin, lung, bladder, kidney, liver cancer), endocrine disruptor.
What are the health effects of mercury exposure?
Developmental issues in fetuses and children (motor, sensory, cognitive deficits).
What are the health effects of BPA exposure?
Endocrine disruptor.
What are the health effects of phthalate exposure?
Endocrine disruptor, reproductive and developmental problems, cancer.
What are the health effects of lead exposure?
Carcinogen, central nervous system damage, especially harmful to children (brain damage, developmental problems), pregnant women (miscarriage, premature birth).
What are the health effects of formaldehyde exposure?
Irritant, carcinogen.
What are the impacts of air pollutants?
Human health issues, environmental damage.
What are the impacts of water pollutants?
Harm to humans and aquatic life.
What are the impacts of soil pollutants?
Harm to humans, plants, and soil organisms.
What are the impacts of food contaminants?
Human health issues, food spoilage.