What term describes substances that can lead to an inability to breathe?

The term that describes substances capable of leading to an inability to breathe is asphyxiants. Asphyxiants are gases or vapors that can replace or displace oxygen in the air, making it difficult for individuals to breathe properly. This includes substances such as carbon monoxide, which can lead to suffocation when inhaled in sufficient quantities. Understanding asphyxiants is crucial in the context of safety and health, particularly in settings where exposure to hazardous materials may occur.

In contrast, pests refer to unwanted organisms that can disrupt systems or environments but do not directly affect the ability to breathe. Palatable water is focused on safe drinking water that is pleasant to consume, and gray water refers to wastewater that is not contaminated with fecal matter. While these options might relate to environmental health, they do not specifically address respiratory issues as asphyxiants do.