Nerve agents, which are numerous in the types of nerve agents, are highly toxic chemicals that are also referred to as, organophosphates” that taint the nervous system and disrupt bodily functions which are vital to a person’s health and overall survival. The danger associated with nerve agents is partly due to its colorless appearance as it becomes extremely hard to determine when it is inhibiting your environment. As well as the imminent harm that can be caused to those that are exposed to the agent in the environment.
Different Types of Nerve Agents
The five major types of nerve agents used in chemical warfare include Sarin, VX, Tabun, Soman, and Mustard. The list of nerve agents below are the background on the toxic nerve agents.
- Sarin is a human-made chemical agent used in warfare, that is classified as a nerve agent. Sarin was developed in 1938 in Germany to be used as a pesticide. However, the level of destruction that could be caused by this agent transformed it into a chemical warfare agent to be deployed against the enemy. This nerve agent is a clear, colorless, and tasteless liquid that is hard to determine in your environment, thus the danger is high.
- VX was developed in the early 1950s in the United Kingdom. This nerve agent is an oily liquid that has a shade of amber, that can be seen very slowly evaporating from the environment. VX is the most potent of all nerve agents, as it is more toxic when absorbed through the skin or inhaled through the mouth.
- Tabun, similar to Sarin, was originally developed as a pesticide in Germany in the 1930s. This nerve agent also referred to as GA, is a clear or sometimes brown liquid that has a fruity taste upon inhalation. Tabun can easily be used for poisoning as it mixes easily with water.
- Soman was developed in 1944 as an insecticide in Germany. Soman also referred to as GD, is a clear, tasteless liquid that harbors a slight odor of rotten fruit. This nerve agent is heavier than air, so it will likely sink to low-lying areas and create a greater level of hazard for those on the ground.
- Sulfur Mustard, also known as mustard gas or mustard agent, is a nerve agent that was first introduced in World War I as a chemical warfare agent. This nerve agent is an extremely powerful irritant and blistering agent that can lead to damage to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
Nerve Agents Symptoms
How Do I Protect Myself from Nerve Agents
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