Explore tens of thousands of sets crafted by our community.
Water Contaminants and Sources
10
Flashcards
0/10
Nitrates
Source of contamination: Agricultural runoff, livestock manure, wastewater. Health effects: 'Blue baby syndrome' (methemoglobinemia), increased risk of cancer, thyroid problems.
PFAS
Source of contamination: Industrial processes, firefighting foams, non-stick cookware. Health effects: Increased cholesterol levels, cancer risk, immune system effects, endocrine disruption.
Chromium (VI)
Source of contamination: Industrial waste, leather tanning, corrosion of stainless steel. Health effects: Respiratory problems, increased risk of cancer, skin irritation.
Lead
Source of contamination: Corroding pipes and solder, paint in old homes. Health effects: Brain and nervous system damage, slowed growth and development in children, hearing and speech problems.
Mercury
Source of contamination: Industrial processes, mining, coal burning. Health effects: Nervous system disorders, impaired vision and hearing, delayed developmental milestones in children.
Arsenic
Source of contamination: Naturally occurring mineral, industrial processes, contaminated sites. Health effects: Skin lesions, increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes.
Microplastics
Source of contamination: Degradation of plastic waste, microbeads in cosmetics. Health effects: Unknown long-term effects, potential hormone disruption, ingestion by marine life.
Pathogens
Source of contamination: Untreated sewage, animal waste, contaminated stormwater. Health effects: Waterborne diseases, stomach illnesses, infections.
Pesticides
Source of contamination: Agricultural runoff, improper disposal of household products. Health effects: Hormone disruption, neurological problems, increased risk of cancer.
Phosphates
Source of contamination: Detergents, fertilizers, sewage. Health effects: Algal blooms leading to 'dead zones', harm to aquatic life and ecosystems.
© Hypatia.Tech. 2024 All rights reserved.