Which of the following fumigants has a high level of toxicity?

Which of the following fumigants has a high level of toxicity?

• A. Carbon disulfide
• B. Ethylene dibromide
• C. Carbon tetrachloride
• D. Ethylene oxide

Answer: (B)

Ethylene dibromide is recognized for its high level of toxicity, which is a critical factor in its use as a fumigant. It is a halogenated compound known for its effectiveness in controlling a wide range of pests, including insects, fungi, and nematodes. However, this effectiveness comes with significant health risks. Ethylene dibromide can cause severe health issues, including respiratory distress, skin and eye irritation, and long-term effects such as potential carcinogenic outcomes when there is exposure. The other fumigants listed, while also hazardous, differ in their toxicity profiles and environmental impacts. Carbon disulfide and carbon tetrachloride are toxic but are used less frequently in fumigation settings due to safety concerns. Ethylene oxide, though effective as a sterilizing agent, carries its own health risks, but it's often considered in a different context than traditional fumigants. Therefore, the recognition of ethylene dibromide's high toxicity level sets it apart in discussions regarding safe fumigation practices.

Ethylene dibromide is recognized for its high level of toxicity, which is a critical factor in its use as a fumigant. It is a halogenated compound known for its effectiveness in controlling a wide range of pests, including insects, fungi, and nematodes. However, this effectiveness comes with significant health risks. Ethylene dibromide can cause severe health issues, including respiratory distress, skin and eye irritation, and long-term effects such as potential carcinogenic outcomes when there is exposure.

The other fumigants listed, while also hazardous, differ in their toxicity profiles and environmental impacts. Carbon disulfide and carbon tetrachloride are toxic but are used less frequently in fumigation settings due to safety concerns. Ethylene oxide, though effective as a sterilizing agent, carries its own health risks, but it's often considered in a different context than traditional fumigants. Therefore, the recognition of ethylene dibromide's high toxicity level sets it apart in discussions regarding safe fumigation practices.