Chapter U4.74, Problem 1E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The method of determining the toxicity of a substance by scientists needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Toxic substances are those which have serious health hazards for living beings.

Answer to Problem 1E

Scientists can determine the toxicity of a substance by performing experiments with the suspected substances.

Explanation of Solution

The toxic effect of a substance cannot be surely known unless it is applied to a living system. Some prediction can be made from the structural analysis. In most of the cases, scientists perform experiments in cultured cells. After that, similar experiments are repeated in living organisms like mice model, dog model, etc. In this way, scientists can determine the toxicity of a substance.