Zinc phosphide causes rodents to die by which of the following mechanisms?

Zinc phosphide acts as a rodenticide through the formation of phosphine gas in the stomach upon reaction with moisture. When rodents ingest zinc phosphide, it reacts with gastric acids and produces phosphine gas, which is highly toxic. This gas interferes with cellular respiration and can lead to lethargy, organ failure, and ultimately death due to how it affects the cellular processes, particularly in vital organs. The rapid production of this gas disrupts normal physiology and is the primary mechanism through which zinc phosphide exerts its lethal effects on rodents. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for effectively managing rodent populations and recognizing the dangers associated with inadvertent exposure in the environment.