Chlorine and anhydrous ammonia are examples of poisonous gases that primarily irritate which body system?

• A. Respiratory
• B. Digestive
• C. Nervous
• D. Circulatory

Answer: (A)

Inhalation hazards of irritant gases attack the respiratory tract. Chlorine and anhydrous ammonia are classic respiratory irritants, so when they’re breathed in they primarily irritate the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and lungs. This leads to coughing, choking, throat irritation, chest tightness, and possible airway swelling. Because the main danger comes from inhalation and the resulting irritation of the airways, the respiratory system is the primary target. Digestive effects would require ingestion, nervous-system effects aren’t the primary reaction for these irritants, and circulatory issues are usually a consequence of impaired oxygen exchange rather than a direct, primary effect.