Why is barium carbonate so toxic?

Barium carbonate is a white, odorless inorganic chemical powder widely used in ceramics, glass manufacturing, electronics, and chemical synthesis. Although it is insoluble in water, it is highly toxic because once ingested, it reacts with gastric acid to produce soluble barium ions. These ions can strongly interfere with muscle and nerve function, cause severe hypokalemia, and lead to muscle paralysis, arrhythmia, and even life-threatening respiratory failure.

You may like