Unit 10 Toxicology
Short Answer Questions
Answer each question to the best of your ability. Some questions may require Internet research. Cite
your sources.
1. List 10 examples of substances that are beneficial in small quantities but
poisonous in larger doses.
2. List at least two substances that were thought to be beneficial to humans
but have recently been questioned.
3. What are some of the influences on the effect of poisons and toxins on the
body?
4. Why does arsenic accumulate in hair and fingernails?
5. What sources of lead are there in our environment other than lead-based
paint?
6. Would breath analyzers measure other alcohols or organic vapors, such as
methanol or subbing alcohol? Explain
7. Distinguish between a stimulant and a depressant. Give an example of
each.
8. Distinguish between a toxin and a poison.
9. Summarize the stages of intoxication.
10.Describe the role of a forensic toxicologist.
11.Explain the absorption, distribution and elimination of alcohol through the
body.
12. Why can a breath test be used to determine the amount of alcohol in the
blood? Explain how the metabolism of alcohol in the body can be used to
determine the amount of alcohol a person drank even when the test is
administered hours later.
13.Two people of equal weight drink the same amount of alcohol over a
period of two hours. One of them appears intoxicated after only three
drinks while the other seems barely affected. Discuss possible factors that
make this possible.