Saturday, November 10, 2012

Arsenic

Arsenic is a metal that, according to the OSHA occurs naturally in the earth's crust. When combined with oxygen, chlorine or sulfur, it becomes an organic compound. It is used as a poison in a lot of sprays to get rid of unwanted guests like bugs, rats or weeds. Because it is directly sprayed onto the soil, it can seep into the groundwater and contaminate any well water connected to it. It is also used in paint, semi-conductors and mirrors. It can be ingested directly through water, food or by breathing it in. High levels of arsenic intake will result in a quick death within hours of ingesting. Those who consume high levels will experience symptoms of a metallic taste in their mouth followed with vomiting and diarrhea as well as excess sweating and will eventually go into shock and die. Those who are exposed to low levels are still at risk, they just won't see results as quickly and usually die from cancer or other health problems caused by the arsenic.



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