Final answer:
The science that deals with understanding health effects associated with chemical exposures is toxicology. It involves studying harmful effects of substances on organisms and environments and developing safety measures. Environmental toxicology further focuses on exposures in natural and living spaces.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basic science applied to understanding the health effects associated with chemical exposures is toxicology. Toxicology is defined as the study of the adverse effects of chemical, physical, or biological agents on living organisms and ecosystems, including the prevention and mitigation of such effects. This discipline encompasses the assessment and understanding of the harmful effects of chemicals on human health and the environment, guiding the development of protections and interventions.
Environmental toxicology specifically examines the health effects of environmental exposures to toxins. This includes evaluating the impact of chemicals that individuals may encounter in their natural, work, and living environments, and forming the basis for regulations to protect both human health and ecosystems.
A fundamental concept in toxicology is the dose-response relationship, which relates the level of exposure to the severity of the toxicological response. Determining safe levels of exposure to different chemicals is critical for public health and is part of the toxicologist's role. This professional may work in various sectors, including government organizations, to ensure public safety from harmful chemical exposures.