Role of Physics in Risk and Exposure Assessment

Abstract

This chapter addresses the physical dynamic processes that occur within the body of a human or other creature. The dynamic forces and processes that move and alter the physical, chemical, and biological properties of contaminants and other substances in the environment also apply within an organism, although at different rates, in the same but a few additional fluids and, obviously, in a more confined system. Like the open environment, both the nature of the substance and that of its substrate, or carrier fluid, will determine the rate and fate within the organism. Discussions build on the previous chapter's dose-response curves, and toxicokinetics to explore the physical underpinnings of dose, routes and pathways of exposure and risk.