Vapor: The gas given off by substances
that are solids or liquids at ordinary atmospheric pressure and temperatures.
Vapor Dispersion: The movement of vapor
clouds or plumes in the air due to wind, gravity, spreading, and mixing.
Vegetative Controls: Non-point source
pollution control practices that involve plants (vegetative cover) to reduce
erosion and minimize the loss of pollutants.
Verdict: The decision of a jury, which
must be accepted by the trial judge to be final. A judgment by a judge sitting
without a jury is not a verdict.
Vinyl Chloride: A chemical compound, used
in producing some plastics, that is believed to be oncogenic.
Vioxx: A drug prescribed to help ease
acute pains associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual
cramps, migraines, and other painful conditions. Merck & Co. voluntarily
withdrew its painkiller drug from the worldwide market on September 30, 2004.
The drug has been linked to cardiovascular risks, such as heart attack and
stroke.
Virus: The smallest form of microorganisms
capable of causing disease. Especially, a virus of fecal origin that is
infectious to humans by waterborne transmission.
Voir Dire: The questioning of prospective
jurors by a judge and attorneys in court to determine if there is cause not to
allow a juror to serve; or questions asked to determine the competence of an
alleged expert witness; or any hearing outside the presence of the jury held
during trial.
Volatile Organic Compound: Any organic
compound which evaporates readily to the atmosphere. VOCs contribute
significantly to photochemical smog production and certain health problems.
Vulnerable Zone: An area over which the
airborne concentration of a chemical accidentally released could reach the level
of concern.
