Question

Mercury is a toxic chemical and heavy metal. it is thought to cause minamata disease, first diagnosed in 1956 after a japanese company started releasing waste with mercury into the ocean back in 1932. since lawsuits continue today, we can infer that these are acute effects from a toxin. a true b false

Answer 1

Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that can cause Minamata disease. Ongoing lawsuits related to the release of mercury waste indicate acute effects from the toxin.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that can cause mercury poisoning. High-level exposure to methylmercury can result in Minamata disease, which has acute effects on the body. This is evident from the ongoing lawsuits related to the release of mercury waste by a Japanese company in 1932, which led to the diagnosis of Minamata disease in 1956.

Answer 2

The statement is false as mercury poisoning from Minamata disease involves both acute and chronic effects, with symptoms and legal cases indicating prolonged consequences of mercury exposure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's question refers to Minamata disease, which is a serious health condition caused by mercury poisoning. The disease was first identified in Minamata, Japan, in 1956, linked to the consumption of fish contaminated with methylmercury discharged by industrial wastewater. Symptoms of mercury poisoning can range from muscle weakness and poor coordination to cognitive deficits and motor difficulties, particularly in children exposed in utero. It is also important to note that mercury has a tendency to biomagnify up the food chain, meaning predators like fish accumulate higher concentrations. Hence, it can be dangerous for humans, especially pregnant women, to consume fish high in mercury. The assertion that mercury poisoning causes acute effects is false, as the effects can be both acute and chronic, with ongoing legal cases suggesting long-lasting impacts rather than immediate repercussions.