Key Idea: Virtually every substance on planet Earth is a potential toxin. In order to be toxic, a substance must first get inside an organism - either by ingestion, inhalation, injection or absorption through external contact with the skin. Toxicity is determined by dosage. In addition one must take into account the size, species and condition of the organism affected. Most substances have the potential to be either toxic or therapeutic depending on dosage. Scientists use a variety of methods and units to quantify toxicity.
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