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Looming DangersSo, you see how important these elements are. But, the same elements can be catastrophic to the environment, and to the health of human beings and other life forms. Shocked? Well, digest these OXYGEN  Oxygen gas (O2) can be toxic at elevated partial pressures, leading to
convulsions and other health problems. Concentrated sources of oxygen promote rapid combustion – fire and explosion. Liquid oxygen spills, if allowed to soak into organic matter, such as wood, petrochemicals and asphalt can cause these materials to burst. HYDROGEN Hydrogen gas mixed with air may spontaneously ignite. While hydrogen fire is extremely hot, it is almost invisible. Thus, it can lead to accidental burns. Liquid hydrogen presents dangers (such as frostbite) associated with very cold liquids. It is the source of lethal bombs.PHOSPHORUS Phosphorus forms toxic compounds. Fluoro phosphate esters are among the most potent neurotoxins known, and some others are used as pesticides and as weapons. The white phosphorus allotrope presents a significant fire hazard due to its extreme reactivity with atmospheric oxygen It causes eutrophication and algal blooms, which can be catastrophic for the natural environment.CARBON Pure carbon has extremely low toxicity and can even be ingested safely. But, inhalation of coal dust or soot (carbon black) in large quantities can be fatal, and can cause lung diseases. Similarly, diamond dust used as an abrasive can do harm if ingested or inhaled. Carbon particles from diesel engine exhaust fumes, accumulate in the lungs. Carbon may also burn vigorously in the presence of air at high temperatures. The great variety of carbon compounds includes lethal poisons like tetrodotoxin, cyanide (CN-) and carbon. NITROGEN Rapid release of nitrogen gas into an enclosed space can displace oxygen, which may kill living organisms. When inhaled at high partial pressures, nitrogen may affect the brain. Direct skin contact cause severe frostbite. Excessive nitrogen in the environment can cause eutrophication, which leads to excessive plant growth and decay, lack of oxygen, and severe reductions in water quality, fish, and other animal populations.CALCIUM Exceeding the recommended daily calcium intake for an extended period of time can result in hypercalcemia and calcium metabolism disorder. Calcium arsenate is toxic and used in insecticides, and Calcium cyclamate has cancer-causing properties.
Gobar Times invites readers to share and seek information about Green Schools at ashish@cseindia.org or write to :- Environment Education Unit Centre for Science and Environment 41, Tughlakabad Institutional Area, New Delhi-110062 or e-mail: eeu@cseindia.org |
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