Ammonia causes immediate burning and irritation, primarily affecting the eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory tract upon exposure to high concentrations.
This caustic effect stems from ammonia's alkaline nature. It readily reacts with moisture in these tissues, forming ammonium hydroxide. This reaction generates heat and disrupts cell membranes, leading to:
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Immediate Burning Sensation: The chemical reaction and heat production cause a burning sensation.
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Irritation: The disrupted cell membranes and tissue damage trigger an inflammatory response, leading to irritation.
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Respiratory Distress: Inhalation of high concentrations can cause swelling in the throat and airways, leading to difficulty breathing, lung damage, or even death.
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Eye Damage: Exposure to ammonia can cause corneal burns, leading to vision impairment or blindness.
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Skin Burns: Direct contact with concentrated ammonia solutions can cause chemical burns on the skin.
Lower concentrations primarily cause irritation of the nose and throat, along with coughing. The severity of the effects depends on the concentration of ammonia, the duration of exposure, and individual susceptibility.
In summary, ammonia's caustic properties cause burning and irritation by chemically reacting with moisture in tissues, disrupting cell membranes, and triggering an inflammatory response.
