Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What is chronic toxicity?

1. Effects from immediate high doses

2. Long-term effects from low doses over time

3. Any toxic effect regardless of duration

4. Only effects caused by environmental exposure

The correct answer is: Long-term effects from low doses over time

Chronic toxicity specifically refers to the long-term adverse effects that result from exposure to low doses of a toxic substance over an extended period. This concept is crucial in toxicology as it highlights the risks associated with prolonged exposure to certain chemicals or compounds, often at levels that may not cause immediate harm but can accumulate and lead to significant health issues over time. Understanding chronic toxicity is essential for assessing the safety of substances in various environments, such as in agriculture, pest management, and public health. This distinguishes chronic toxicity from acute toxicity, where harmful effects arise from high doses administered over a short duration. In contrast to the other descriptions, chronic toxicity is not simply any toxic effect, nor is it limited to effects caused solely by environmental exposure. Understanding this concept helps mitigate risks associated with long-term exposure and informs guidelines for acceptable exposure levels in occupational and residential settings.