What does LC50 measure in toxicology?

LC50 is a key term in toxicology that specifically measures the inhalation concentration of a substance that causes the death of 50% of a test population, usually laboratory animals, over a specified period of exposure. It is a critical metric used to assess the acute toxicity of airborne chemicals, helping to establish safety levels and regulatory standards for environmental exposures. The unit of measurement is typically expressed in terms of concentration, such as milligrams of substance per liter of air (mg/L).

This measure is crucial in evaluating the potential risks posed by chemicals during inhalation, which is a common exposure route in various settings, including occupational environments and emergency response scenarios. Understanding the LC50 allows toxicologists and safety professionals to quantify the danger posed by inhaled substances, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding exposure limits and protective measures.