Step 1: Understanding the Question:
We need to identify the immediate physiological effect that tear gas has on the human body from the given options.
Step 2: Key Concepts and Chemical Agents:
Tear gas (comprising chemical compounds like CS, CN, or CR gas) is a lachrymatory agent.
It works by stimulating the sensory nerve endings in mucous membranes, particularly in the eyes and respiratory system.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
• Immediate Effect: The primary and most rapid reaction to tear gas exposure is severe irritation and burning of the eyes.
This leads to heavy tearing (lachrymation), involuntary closure of the eyelids (blepharospasm), and temporary blindness.
It also causes coughing, breathing difficulties, and nasal irritation.
• Analyzing other options:
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Cold and Fever: These are infectious or systemic inflammatory responses that develop over days, not immediate chemical reactions.
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Fainting: While extreme exposure or panic can cause dizziness, fainting is not the direct or primary physiological response designed by tear gas.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Therefore, the immediate effect of tear gas is eye burning, corresponding to Option (A).