ATSDR - Toxic Substances - Sulfur Dioxide
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Sulfur Dioxide

CAS ID #: 7446-09-5

Affected Organ Systems: Immunological (Immune System), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)

Cancer Classification: None

Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA’s IRIS Hotline with questions on cancer and cancer classification.

Chemical Classification: Inorganic substances

Summary: Sulfur dioxide is a colorless gas with a pungent odor. It is a liquid when under pressure, and it dissolves in water very easily. Sulfur dioxide in the air comes mainly from activities such as the burning of coal and oil at power plants or from copper smelting. In nature, sulfur dioxide can be released to the air from volcanic eruptions.

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