Final answer:
The toxic levels of salicylic acid can vary depending on the exposure route and the organism. High levels of salicylic acid can be toxic to humans, causing symptoms such as ringing in the ears and gastrointestinal problems. In plants, excessive levels of salicylic acid can inhibit growth and cause damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The toxic levels of salicylic acid can vary depending on the exposure route and the organism. In humans, high levels of salicylic acid can be toxic and lead to symptoms such as ringing in the ears, dizziness, and gastrointestinal problems. The recommended levels of salicylic acid in drinking water are less than 10–50 µg/L (10–50 parts per billion).
In plants, salicylic acid is actually a natural hormone that helps regulate various physiological processes and defense mechanisms against pathogens. However, excessive levels of salicylic acid can also be toxic to plants, inhibiting growth and causing damage.