What does LD50 refer to?

LD50 stands for "lethal dose, 50 percent," and it is a common measure used in toxicology to assess the toxicity of substances. Specifically, it indicates the dose of a substance that is expected to cause death in 50% of a test population, usually laboratory animals. This metric is crucial for evaluating the potential hazards of chemicals and drugs, providing a standardized way to compare the safety of different substances.

Understanding LD50 helps researchers and regulators to establish safety guidelines and regulations for chemical exposure, contributing to public health and environmental safety. By determining the lethal dosage for half of the test subjects, scientists can better ascertain the relative toxicity of substances and make informed decisions regarding their use and regulation.