Final answer:
A teratogen is an environmental agent that can cause damage to a developing embryo or fetus. Examples of teratogens include alcohol, cigarette smoke, prescription drugs, and chemical compounds. Exposure to teratogens during pregnancy can result in physical defects, impaired growth, developmental delays, and cognitive deficits.
Step-by-step explanation:
A teratogen is any environmental agent-biological, chemical, or physical-that causes damage to the developing embryo or fetus. Examples of teratogens include alcohol, cigarette smoke, prescription drugs, nutrient deficiencies, and chemical compounds such as methyl iodide and bisphenol A. Exposure to teratogens during pregnancy can result in physical defects, impaired growth, impaired neural development, low birth weight, developmental delays, behavioral issues, and cognitive deficits in the offspring.