CAS Number: 56-23-5. A colorless, nonflammable, toxic liquid that
has an odor resembling that of chloroform and is used as a
solvent and a refrigerant. Chemical formula = CCl4. Molecular
weight =
153.8 g/mol.
Glossary Term Category
Glossary Term Show In Main
No
Glossary Term Ext Def
Carbon tetrachloride may be found in both ambient outdoor and
indoor air. The primary effects of carbon tetrachloride in
humans are on the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system
(CNS). Human symptoms of acute (short-term) inhalation and oral
exposures to carbon tetrachloride include headache, weakness,
lethargy, nausea, and vomiting. Acute exposures to higher levels
and chronic (long-term) inhalation or oral exposure to carbon
tetrachloride produces liver and kidney damage in humans. Human
data on the carcinogenic effects of carbon tetrachloride are
limited. Studies in animals have shown that ingestion of carbon
tetrachloride increases the risk of liver cancer. EPA has
classified carbon tetrachloride as a Group B2, probable human
carcinogen.