Which of the following is an example of a common industrial toxin?

Asbestos is considered a common industrial toxin due to its historical widespread use in construction and manufacturing. It is a fibrous material that was once valued for its fire-resistant properties. However, research has revealed that asbestos exposure can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, a chronic lung condition. The inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause significant damage to lung tissue, leading to long-term health complications.

In contrast, while lead is also a known toxic element, it is less commonly used in industrial settings today due to regulations limiting its use in products like paint and plumbing. Carbon dioxide, although a pollutant in high concentrations, is a naturally occurring gas essential for respiration and photosynthesis, with a primary role in the carbon cycle rather than being classified strictly as a toxin in an industrial context. Chlorophyll, on the other hand, is a green pigment found in plants that is essential for photosynthesis and is not toxic in any regard. Thus, asbestos stands out as the most appropriate example of a common industrial toxin in this context.