Which statement best defines an asphyxiant?

Which statement best defines an asphyxiant?

• A. A substance that interferes with the oxygenation of tissue
• B. A substance that disrupts the nervous system
• C. A substance that tastes bitter
• D. A substance that neutralizes bases

Answer: (A)

An asphyxiant is defined by its impact on oxygen reaching or being used by the body's tissues. It can either displace or dilute the oxygen we breathe, or interfere with the cells’ ability to use oxygen. That is why the description of a substance that interferes with the oxygenation of tissue is the correct definition. The other statements describe effects unrelated to oxygen delivery or utilization (nervous system disruption, a taste property, or neutralizing bases), so they don’t capture what an asphyxiant does.

An asphyxiant is defined by its impact on oxygen reaching or being used by the body's tissues. It can either displace or dilute the oxygen we breathe, or interfere with the cells’ ability to use oxygen. That is why the description of a substance that interferes with the oxygenation of tissue is the correct definition. The other statements describe effects unrelated to oxygen delivery or utilization (nervous system disruption, a taste property, or neutralizing bases), so they don’t capture what an asphyxiant does.