Known carcinogens should not be used by students in our high school lab. Mutagens are chemical and physical agents that induce mutations in DNA and in living cells. This affects the genetic system in such a way as to cause cancer or hereditary changes in chromosomes. Individuals exposed to chemicals with mutagenic properties may develop genetic damage to the extent that future offspring will be affected. Known mutagens should not be used by students in our high school lab.
Teratogens are chemical and physical agents that interfere with normal embryonic development.
Teratogens differ from mutagens in that there must be a developing fetus. Teratogens may produce congenital malformations or death of the fetus without inducing damage to the pregnant woman. Known Teratogens should not be used by students in our high school lab. Corrosive chemicals can burn, irritate, or destructively attack living tissue. When inhaled or ingested, lung and stomach tissue are affected.