Chapter U4.74, Problem 2E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The relation between the toxicity and the body weight needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Toxicity of a substance is defined as its harmful effects on living beings. It is measured per kg of the body weight.

Answer to Problem 2E

Toxicity is measured as the amount of toxic substance required per kg of the body weight of living being. The higher the body weight, higher is the amount of the toxic substance needed to show significant harmful effects.

Explanation of Solution

LD 50 value is one important unit which is often used to measure toxicity. It means the amount of the toxic substance required per kg of the living being to kill 50 % of the cells.

Thus, toxicity is measured with respect to body weight of the living being.

If a living being has higher body weight, then higher amount of toxic susbtance will be required. For example, experiment with mice needs very few mg of toxic susbtances but same experiments needs very high amount of toxic substances when applied to dog model or human model.

Conclusion

Toxicity is directly linked with body weight.