Tear gas, also known as a lachrymatory agent or lachrymator (from Latin lacrima ' tear '), sometimes colloquially known as " mace " after the early commercial self-defense spray, i

Jun 3, 2026 · Tear gas, any of a group of substances that irritate the mucous membranes of the eyes, causing a stinging sensation and tears. They may also irritate the upper respi

Jun 10, 2026 · Riot control agents (also called "tear gas") are chemical compounds that temporarily make people unable to function. It does this by causing irritation to the eyes,

Oct 28, 2025 · Tear gas tends to be classified as a “chemical irritant,” and the term itself, per the Centers for Disease Control, is often used interchangeably to refer to a

Apr 29, 2026 · Tear gas triggers intense burning and irritation by activating pain receptors. Learn how it affects the body, its risks, and what to do after exposure.

Mar 11, 2026 · Federal agents' heavy use of tear gas is raising concern about harmful effects to protestors and neighborhoods. A toxicologist explains what it is and its health ef

In this report, we investigate why tear gas use is harmful and what we can do about it. Exposure to tear gas causes a burning sensation and induces streaming eyes, coughing, tighte

Phenacyl chloride (CN) liquid and CS powder are two of the chemicals that are often found in tear gas. Pepper spray is another chemical compound that acts very similarly and is som

Nov 29, 2018 · Weapons like sarin gas cause muscle paralysis that can lead to suffocation. These are designed to kill, while tear gas’ purpose is to repel crowds through maximum

Just what is this dreadful stuff, and why does it feel like you've been licked full in the face by the devil himself? In this article, we'll pop open the silver canister and discus