Normal breathing will cause what symptom when exposed to chlorine gas, which must be prevented if possible?

• A. Sneezing
• B. Coughing
• C. Dizziness
• D. Shortness of Breath

Answer: (B)

Chlorine gas is a respiratory irritant, so inhaling it will trigger the body's protective coughing response even with normal breathing. When chlorine irritates the throat, airways, and lungs, the cough reflex is activated to try to clear the irritant from the airways. That makes coughing the most immediate and likely symptom at typical exposure levels.

Other symptoms, like sneezing, dizziness, or shortness of breath, can occur but are less consistent with initial exposure. Sneezing is more of a nasal reaction, dizziness can happen with higher concentrations or longer exposure, and shortness of breath indicates more significant airway involvement or exposure. The key idea is that coughing is the common, early reaction to chlorine inhalation, and preventing exposure in the first place is essential. If exposure occurs, move to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.