Anthrax and Ricin

Anthrax and ricin have become prominent components in bioterrorism. The anthrax attacks immediately following 9/11 created widespread panic and several deaths around the country, and plotters around the globe have used or attempted to use ricin, a weapon easily made at home. Compare and contrast anthrax and ricin as weapons of terrorism by addressing the following in a thorough analysis.

Why is anthrax such a poignant biological weapon?
What are the dangers of anthrax?
Why might terrorists choose to use this as a weapon?
What is the likelihood that terrorists will be able to use this as a weapon in the homeland?
Why is ricin such a poignant biological weapon?
What are the dangers of ricin?
Why might terrorists choose to use this as a weapon?
What is the likelihood that terrorists will be able to use this as a weapon in the homeland?
Compare and contrast anthrax and ricin.
How are these two biological agents similar or dissimilar in their makeup and workings?
Which is more effective as a biological weapon?
In your opinion, which weapon is most likely to be used in a terrorist attack in the United States?
What are the reasons terrorists might use anthrax instead of ricin and vice versa?
Is the U.S. properly prepared for defending against these two weapons?