Toxic materials can cause death or injury primarily through which method?

The correct answer is based on the primary mechanism through which toxic materials inflict harm on living organisms. Toxic materials can lead to adverse health effects, including death or injury, primarily through the process of poisoning. This can occur when harmful substances enter the body via ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption, disrupting normal physiological functions and potentially leading to severe health issues such as organ failure or poisoning-related conditions.

Burning generally relates to the physical effects of fire, which can cause injuries through heat and flames, rather than through the chemical effects of toxic substances. Electrical shock involves an electric current passing through the body, resulting in injury or death, and does not pertain to the toxic effects of materials. Radiation exposure typically causes harm through ionizing effects on the body's cellular structures, which is distinct from the chemical toxicity associated with poisoning. Thus, poisoning is the most direct and common method through which toxic materials cause serious health impacts.