What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)? Are VOCs potentially more dangerous than non-volatile compounds? Why or why not?

  1. What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)?  Are VOCs potentially more dangerous than non-volatile compounds?  Why or why not?
  2. Many VOC’s are toxic to man.  What are the chemical properties of Volatile Organic Compounds that make them an especially potent class of toxic chemicals?
  3. Volatile Organic Compounds are also problematic because they are usually able to readily dissolve in water.  Why is this problem for the human body?
  4. Most VOCs are also water soluble.  If a VOC escapes to the atmosphere and then it rains, what may occur?
  5. Not all VOCs are toxic.  What are the important factors that can affect the toxicity of a chemical?
  6. Why is LC50 important in toxicology? How does LC50 differ from LC10?
  7. Select one class of the phylum Cnidaria. What are the characteristics of this class? What are the differences in these organisms’ structures and functions? Do these cnidarians live in all locations? Why or why not?
  8. Do you feel other organisms can benefit from the currents created from the hydra’s somersault movements…or can it disorient or make aquatic life more difficult for the other living things nearby?
  9. Do you feel there are differences in the benefits of the medusa shape compared to the bell shape? Think in terms of movement efficiency and the way the organisms might present themselves to defend, escape, or to intimidate predators or to lure prey.