polywater intoxication (FASA)
On Stardate 1704.2, the gravitational forces from the collapse of Psi 2000 caused water to become a complex molecule.[1] The affected molecules became a catalyzing agent for water-binding with other molecules, and was so powerful that in the absence of other materials, it would bind even with itself. Once in the bloodstream, it would make it more difficult for the body to extract nutrients from the blood, beginning with blood sugar, which starved the brain, resulting in aberrant psychiatric behavior,[2] as though the affected individual was under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.[1] As the process continued, it eventually made the blood too thick for the heart to pump, resulting in death by circulatory collapse,[2] as with Lieutenant Joe Tormolen, who died in surgery, despite his physical trauma having been repaired. Exposure to the polywater molecules resulted in the death of the entire[1] six-person[2] scientific team on the surface of the planet, and it nearly claimed the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 as well, had Dr. McCoy not found a cure in time.[1]
Notes and References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Roddenberry, Gene (Executive Producer). "The Man Trap". Star Trek, season 1, episode 1 (Production number 06). Directed by Marc Daniels. Written by George Clayton Johnson. Desilu Productions. 8 September 1966.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Blish, James (Author). "The Unreal McCoy," Star Trek 1. Star Trek. Novelization . Adapted from "The Man Trap," written by George Clayton Johnson. Ballantine Books. January 1967.
