Chemical weapons
Chemical Weapons
Chemical weapons (pronunciation: /ˈkɛmɪkəl ˈwɛpənz/) are a category of weapons of mass destruction that utilize chemical substances to inflict harm or death upon humans, animals, or plants.
Etymology
The term "chemical weapon" is derived from the nature of the weapon itself, which uses chemicals as a means of warfare. The term has been in use since the early 20th century, coinciding with the development and use of such weapons in World War I.
Types of Chemical Weapons
Chemical weapons can be classified into several types based on the effect they have on their targets. These include:
- Nerve agents: These are highly toxic chemicals that disrupt the functioning of the nervous system, leading to a variety of symptoms and often death.
- Blister agents: Also known as vesicants, these cause severe skin, eye and mucosal pain and damage.
- Blood agents: These are poisons that affect the body by being absorbed into the blood.
- Choking agents: These cause damage to the body's respiratory system, often leading to suffocation.
- Riot control agents: While not typically lethal, these are used to disperse crowds and cause temporary discomfort or disability.
History
The use of chemical weapons dates back to ancient times, but their modern use began in World War I, with the deployment of chlorine and mustard gas. Despite international efforts to ban their use, such as the Geneva Protocol of 1925 and the Chemical Weapons Convention of 1993, chemical weapons have been used in numerous conflicts throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.
Effects
The effects of chemical weapons can range from temporary discomfort or injury to death, depending on the type of agent used, the concentration, and the length of exposure. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, blurred vision, burns, blisters, convulsions, and nausea, among others.
Disposal
The disposal of chemical weapons is a complex and dangerous process. It often involves the destruction of the weapons in high-temperature incinerators or the neutralization of the chemicals through a process known as hydrolysis.
See Also
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