What is the fastest exposure route for petroleum toxicity to affect the body?

Inhalation is the fastest exposure route for petroleum toxicity to affect the body because it allows for rapid absorption of harmful substances directly into the bloodstream through the lungs. When petroleum vapors or aerosols are inhaled, they bypass the digestive system and are quickly delivered to the cardiovascular system, leading to immediate effects on various organs, including the brain.

This route of exposure is particularly dangerous since respiratory passages can absorb volatile compounds much more efficiently than other routes. Inhalation of toxic vapors can result in acute symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, or respiratory distress within minutes of exposure. Other routes, like ingestion or skin contact, typically involve processes that slow down absorption, allowing more time for the body to react before severe effects manifest.

Additionally, while injection provides direct access to the bloodstream, it's a less common route of exposure in day-to-day situations involving petroleum products compared to inhalation, which can occur even in poorly ventilated areas or during spills. Thus, inhalation stands out as the most immediate and hazardous route for petroleum toxicity.