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What is the half-life of lead stored in bones?
10 years
20 years
30 years
40 years
The correct answer is: 30 years
The half-life of lead stored in bones is approximately 30 years. This is significant because it indicates how long lead can remain in the human body, particularly in the skeletal system. Lead tends to accumulate in the bones after exposure, especially in cases of chronic lead poisoning. Unlike some other metals that may be expelled from the body relatively quickly, lead has a slower elimination rate, which raises concerns regarding long-term health effects. Understanding this half-life is crucial for assessing the risks associated with lead exposure and for developing monitoring and intervention strategies in lead management.