Which type of substance interferes with oxygen exchange during respiration?

Asphyxiants are substances that displace oxygen, impairing the ability of the body to take in or utilize oxygen effectively. They can lead to suffocation or hypoxia, where the body or specific tissues do not receive enough oxygen to function properly. By interfering with oxygen exchange during respiration, asphyxiants can cause serious harm or even be fatal if exposure occurs over a critical period or at a high concentration.

Understanding the nature of asphyxiants is crucial in emergency response situations involving hazardous materials, as responders need to recognize the potential dangers and implement appropriate safety measures to protect themselves and others from oxygen deprivation.