What are toxic substances?

Toxic substances are defined as materials that can cause injury or death to living organisms, often due to their chemical composition and properties. The correct answer emphasizes that these materials are manmade, which suggests they are products resulting from industrial processes, chemical syntheses, or other human activities. They can include a wide range of chemicals, from pesticides and heavy metals to industrial solvents and pharmaceuticals.

Understanding that toxic substances can pose serious risks to health and the environment highlights the importance of proper handling, storage, and disposal. This contrasts with the other choices, which misrepresent various aspects of toxicity. Some options limit the definition of toxic substances to merely ingestion, ignore the potential for natural materials to be hazardous, or incorrectly suggest that low toxicity implies no risk. Recognizing the broader scope of what toxic substances can be, particularly those that are manmade and potentially lethal, is critical for peace officers and others who may encounter these materials in the field.