Which of the following statements about CS gas is true?

The statement about CS gas causing severe respiratory distress is accurate. CS gas, also known as tear gas, is a chemical compound that irritates the mucous membranes, particularly those in the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Exposure to CS gas can lead to symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and a feeling of choking, which contribute to respiratory distress. This makes it an effective agent for riot control and crowd dispersal, as it can incapacitate individuals temporarily. Understanding the physiological effects of CS gas is critical for training personnel, ensuring they are prepared for scenarios in which chemical agents may be employed.

In contrast, the potency of CN (Mace) is generally considered higher than that of CS gas in terms of its ability to incapacitate individuals. Additionally, CS gas is definitely effective against humans, as it is commonly used in riot control situations. Lastly, while it is used for training purposes, this is not its primary role; it is more significantly recognized for its use in law enforcement and crowd control situations. Hence, the focus on severe respiratory distress is what validates the correct choice regarding the properties and effects of CS gas.