Several inorganic substances are well-known for their toxicological significance. These include:
- Arsenic: Found in groundwater, arsenic is a potent carcinogen and can cause skin and internal cancers. - Cadmium: Used in batteries and pigments, cadmium exposure can lead to kidney damage and bone fragility. - Lead: Found in old paints and pipes, lead exposure affects multiple body systems, particularly the nervous system. - Mercury: Used in thermometers and industrial processes, mercury exposure can impair neurological function. - Asbestos: Once widely used for insulation, inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause lung cancer and mesothelioma.
