Question

Which of the following are under the category of nerve gases?
A. Tabun
B. Sarin
C. DFP
D. Soman

• A. A and C only
• B. B and C only
• C. A, B and C only
• D. A, B and D only

Hint:

Remember the classic "G-series" of military nerve agents developed in Germany:
- GA = Tabun
- GB = Sarin
- GD = Soman
- DFP is a potent laboratory organophosphate but not categorized as a military nerve gas.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Nerve gases (or nerve agents) are a class of highly toxic synthetic organophosphorus compounds that disrupt the transfer of messages from the brain to the organs.
They act as potent, irreversible inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase, leading to an overwhelming accumulation of acetylcholine in the synaptic clefts (cholinergic crisis).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us review the compounds listed:
- A. Tabun (GA): Developed in Germany in 1936, this was the first of the G-series nerve agents.
Thus, it is a nerve gas.
- B. Sarin (GB): Developed in Germany in 1938, it is a highly volatile, colorless, odorless G-series agent.
Thus, it is a nerve gas.
- C. DFP (Diisopropyl fluorophosphate): An organophosphate developed for research and medical applications (such as treating glaucoma).
While it is an extremely potent cholinesterase inhibitor, it is classified as a laboratory reagent/therapeutic drug rather than a military-grade "nerve gas" chemical weapon.
- D. Soman (GD): Developed in Germany in 1944, it is a persistent G-series nerve agent with a camphor-like odor.
Thus, it is a nerve gas.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The classic G-series military nerve gases are Tabun, Sarin, and Soman, making option (D) the correct choice.