9781422282984

13

Science and Energy

SCIENCE AND The Military

1

Words to Understand anesthetic  a substance that reduces sensitivity to pain and may cause unconsciousness enzyme  a substance produced by cells that speeds up the chemical reactions necessary for life intravenously  method of injecting drugs directly into veins platelets  tiny particles that help blood clot regime  the government in power

A bd al-Mouin took a deep breath. Soon he gasped in pain.The 22-year-old knewwhat was happening.The house reeked of bleach, the tell-tale sign of chlorine gas.He corralled his nephews and rushed them outside. Every time Mouin inhaled, it felt like his lungs were on fire. Finally, Mouin passed out, his worst fears realized. Mouin and his neighbors living in the Syrian town of Sarmeen were victims of a chlorine gas attack.