Heavy metal toxity in plants, give back ground and introduction by
1: define heavy metal and toxicity
2: source of heavy metal contamination
3: impotence heavy metals
4: why heavy metals considered harmful na give intext citation and references for the above.
1: Heavy metals are defined as metallic elements with high atomic weights and densities, such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic. These metals are known to be toxic to plants, animals, and humans when present in high concentrations. Heavy metal toxicity refers to the harmful effects of these metals on living organisms, including disrupting metabolic processes and causing cell damage.
2: Sources of heavy metal contamination in plants include natural occurrences in soil and water, as well as human activities such as industrial pollution, mining, and the use of fertilizers and pesticides containing heavy metals. These metals can accumulate in plants through root uptake from soil or water, leading to toxicity.
3: Heavy metals are important pollutants because of their persistence in the environment and their ability to bioaccumulate in living organisms. They can interfere with plant growth and development by disrupting essential physiological processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, and nutrient uptake. Additionally, heavy metals can cause oxidative stress and damage to plant cells, affecting overall plant health and productivity.
4: Heavy metals are considered harmful to plants due to their toxicity and potential for bioaccumulation in the food chain. According to a study by Kabata-Pendias and Mukherjee (2007), heavy metal pollution is a major environmental concern worldwide, posing serious risks to human health and ecosystem integrity. Therefore, it is essential to monitor and mitigate the impact of heavy metal toxicity on plants and the environment.
Reference:
Kabata-Pendias, A., & Mukherjee, A. B. (2007). Trace elements from soil to human. Springer Science & Business Media.