Take the Nicotine Quiz

Nicotine, one of the main chemicals in tobacco, is the primary reason that smoking is so addictive, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Even though most smokers know that smoking is bad for them, they find it difficult to quit because of nicotine's effect.

1. Nicotine causes which of these changes in the body?

A. Lowers body temperature B. Increases heart rate C. Increases blood pressure D. B and C

2. What happens when nicotine comes into contact with the brain?

A. Tissues swell B. Dopamine is released C. Nerve centers shut down D. Adrenaline decreases

3. How does dependence on nicotine develop?

A. Nicotine alters the pattern of nerve signals in the brain B. Peer pressure makes it hard to quit C. Mental habit is too hard to break D. Physical craving is too strong

4. What's the most common reason for not quitting?

A. Smoking relieves stress B. Craving is too strong C. Worried about weight gain D. Enjoy it too much

5. Cigarette smoke contains traces of which of these harmful chemicals?

A. Radioactive lead and polonium B. Arsenic C. Formaldehyde D. All of the above

6. Cigarette filters remove which of these when a smoker inhales?

A. Carbon monoxide B. Some tar C. Some nicotine D. B and C

7. Research on how nicotine alters brain chemistry may help scientists develop new drugs. What type are they?

A. Antidepressants B. Painkillers C. Tranquilizers D. Vitamins

8. Which of these is the most significant health risk for smokers?

A. Cancer B. High blood pressure C. Heart attacks D. Arthritis