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Sulphur

It is encountered most frequently as one of its oxides. Sulphur dioxide or the sulphate as sulphuric acid are produced in large quantities in the combustion of fossil fuels. Again, its primary effect is on the respiratory tract.

Nitrogen

Nitrogen compounds, primarily the oxides, arise principally from high-temperature combustion in the form of nitrous oxide and nitrogen dioxide. These gases, demonstrated to cause respiratory problems, are of particular concern in closed spaces. Another oxide of nitrogen, nitrate, may arise from fertilizer, sewage waste, and to a lesser extent, conversion of nitrogen dioxide to nitrate by atmospheric electrical activity. Nitrate most frequently appears in water though it may, when occurring in large amounts in soils, be present in certain plants. Nitrate, even at moderate levels, is a particular hazard to the infant.

Mercury

Held fascination for the ancient alchemist but its worth was found in economic enterprises over the years. It has been used in medicine, agriculture and industry for a wide variety of purposes. Its use as a catalyst in the plastic industry as well as numerous incidents of poisoning have served to focus on the hazard it represents in the physical environment. A finding of particular interest in the Minimata poisoning incident in Japan was that this metal, like some others, may be methylated in the environment to pose an even greater hazard through bioaccumulation and intrinsic toxicity.

Arsenic

It is to be found in geological formations from whence it may be leached into water supplies. It also finds its way into the environment through activities such as mining, smelting, and to a lesser extent in recent years, through the use of inorganic arsenic. It is both toxic and carcinogenic.

Asbestos

Asbestos fibres escape into the environment during mining and manufacturing processes as well as in construction. It may be found in water and air to which humans will be exposed. It has also been demonstrated that there may be a familial exposure. Asbestos is a source of concern because of its production of neoplasms and particularly mesothelioma.