Which agents are categorized as irritants?

Irritant agents are substances that cause local irritation to the eyes, skin, or respiratory tract upon exposure. CS (tear gas) and mace (which usually contains a form of OC, or oleoresin capsicum) fit well into this category because they are specifically designed to cause irritation for the purpose of incapacitating individuals.

CS is a synthetic compound known for its ability to inflict temporary blindness, coughing, and other respiratory problems, making it widely used in crowd control and self-defense. Mace, similarly, is formulated to irritate mucous membranes and cause discomfort as a deterrent.

In contrast, the other compounds mentioned do not primarily function as irritants. Chlorine and phosgene are toxic gases that can cause severe lung damage and other systemic effects, while ricin and anthrax are lethal biological agents. Hydrogen cyanide and hydrogen chloride are highly toxic gases that primarily affect the nervous system and respiratory system, respectively, but are classified more as poisons than irritants.

The key differentiator for the correct answer revolves around the specific intent and effects of CS and mace as irritants, compared to the other agents that can cause damage through more serious or lethal means.