Biological attacks primarily utilize which of the following?

Biological attacks primarily utilize viruses, bacteria, and toxins because these agents can cause illness and even death among large populations with relatively low quantities. Unlike explosive materials or chemicals, which rely on rapid physical damage or chemical reactions, biological agents work by infecting living organisms, leading to outbreaks and health crises that can spread beyond initial targets.

In terms of strategy, biological agents are effective because they can be disseminated in various ways, such as through aerosols, contaminated food or water, and even through direct contact, allowing for a covert method of attack that can be hard to trace back to the source immediately. The use of these pathogens also raises public fear and can overwhelm healthcare systems, further compounding their impact.

Explosive materials and chemicals, mechanical devices, and standard weaponry, while potentially dangerous and effective in different contexts, do not fit the definition of biological attacks, which specifically target living organisms with biological agents to induce disease.