What is a common characteristic of nerve agents?

What is a common characteristic of nerve agents?

• A. They cause visual impairment
• B. They typically induce vomiting
• C. They affect the nervous system
• D. They are explosive

Answer: (C)

Nerve agents are specifically designed to disrupt the normal functioning of the nervous system, which is the primary characteristic that defines them. They inhibit the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, leading to an accumulation of this neurotransmitter. This accumulation results in over-stimulation of the muscles, glands, and central nervous system. The effects can manifest as a range of serious symptoms, including convulsions, muscle twitching, and respiratory distress. Although some nerve agents may cause visual impairment or other symptoms like vomiting, these are secondary effects and not defining characteristics. Additionally, nerve agents are not explosive; they primarily function through chemical interaction rather than explosive reactions. Therefore, the correct choice, highlighting their effect on the nervous system, captures the essential nature of how these agents operate.

Nerve agents are specifically designed to disrupt the normal functioning of the nervous system, which is the primary characteristic that defines them. They inhibit the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, leading to an accumulation of this neurotransmitter. This accumulation results in over-stimulation of the muscles, glands, and central nervous system. The effects can manifest as a range of serious symptoms, including convulsions, muscle twitching, and respiratory distress.

Although some nerve agents may cause visual impairment or other symptoms like vomiting, these are secondary effects and not defining characteristics. Additionally, nerve agents are not explosive; they primarily function through chemical interaction rather than explosive reactions. Therefore, the correct choice, highlighting their effect on the nervous system, captures the essential nature of how these agents operate.