Environmental Medium - A particular portion of the environment, such as air, soil, or water in which a contaminant may be found, or through which a contaminant may pass. N Neurologic - Pertaining to the nervous system. Many toxins have neurologic effects. O Organic Compounds - Chemical compounds that contain carbon atoms and also hydrogen. All living things are composed of organic compounds.
Common examples are carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
These are naturally occurring organic compounds that are readily broken down and the atoms recycled for use. Today, many organic compounds are artificially synthesized in the laboratory. Many of these compounds can not be broken down by natural systems, and they remain in the environment for a very long time. Many of these synthetic organic compounds are also very toxic. P Pathogen - Disease causing microorganisms.