Choking agents like chlorine and phosgene can cause death in as little as how many minutes?

Choking agents such as chlorine and phosgene are highly toxic substances that can lead to rapid onset of severe respiratory distress and can be fatal within a very short time frame. The correct answer indicates that exposure to these agents can result in death in as little as 1 to 3 minutes, particularly in a concentrated environment where the levels of these gases are high.

This rapid lethality is due to the way these chemicals attack the respiratory system, causing inflammation and fluid accumulation in the lungs, which results in suffocation. In real-world scenarios, the immediate danger posed by these choking agents requires swift action for decontamination and medical assistance, emphasizing the need for proper protective measures and protocols for handling hazardous materials. Understanding the urgency of dealing with such situations is critical for effective emergency response and can significantly affect outcomes for those exposed.