What's in a cigarette
There are around 4000 chemicals in cigarette smoke, here are just a handful of them.
Nicotine
Nicotine is a colourless, poisonous alkaloid, derived from the tobacco plant. It is a powerful drug, which affects the brain and quickly becomes addictive. It can also be found in weedkiller.
Tar
“Tar” is the term used to describe the toxic chemicals found in cigarettes. This is a sticky brown substance that forms when tobacco cools and condenses. It collects in the lungs and can cause cancer.
Carbon Monoxide
An odourless, colourless gas that is released from burning tobacco. When it is inhaled it enters the blood stream and interferes with the working of the heart and the blood vessels. Up to 15% of a smoker’s blood can be carrying carbon monoxide instead of oxygen.
Arsenic
Arsenic-containing pesticides used in tobacco farming occur in small quantities in cigarette smoke. Arsenic is commonly found in rat poison.
Ammonia - floor cleaner
Ammonia is a toxic, colourless gas with a sharp odour. Ammonia compounds are commonly used in cleaning products and fertilizers. Also used to boost the impact of nicotine in manufactured cigarettes.
Acetone - Nail polish remover
Fragrant volatile liquid ketone, used as a solvent, for example, nail polish remover.
Toluene - Explosives
Toluene is a highly toxic chemical. The main uses of toluene in industry include rubbers, oils, resins, adhesives, inks, detergents, dyes and explosives.
Methylamine - tanning lotion
A chemical found in tanning lotion.
Pesticides - DDT
A number of pesticides (chemicals used to kill pests, usually insects) are present in cigarette smoke. - pesticides are toxic. These pesticides find their way into cigarettes because they’re used on tobacco plants as they are growing.
Polonium –210
A radioactive element – used in nuclear weapons, also used as an atomic heat source.
Methanol
A fuel used in the aviation industry.
Formaldehyde
It causes cancer, and can damage your lungs, skin and digestive system. Embalmers use it to preserve dead bodies.
Lead
Lead poisoning stunts your growth, makes you vomit, and damages your brain.
