Question

Chemical weapons might release gases or aerosols recognizable only upon exposure or shortly thereafter. Example: nerve agents, such as sarin, and choking agents, such as chlorine.

Answer 1

Nerve agents, such as sarin, are chemical warfare agents that disrupt nerve communication in the body by blocking the breakdown of a neurotransmitter. They can be released as gases or aerosols and cause symptoms of nerve poisoning upon exposure.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nerve agents, such as sarin, are a type of chemical warfare agent that can be released as gases or aerosols.

These agents work by disrupting the mechanisms by which nerves transfer messages to organs, blocking the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) which breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter.

When exposed to nerve agents, symptoms such as constriction of pupils, salivation, convulsions, and involuntary urination and defecation can occur within seconds.