1 : Define heavy metal and toxicity (give citation and references)
2: source of heavy metal contamination (citation and references)
3: impotence of heavy metals (citation and references)
4: why heavy metals considered harmful ( citation and references)
1: Heavy metals are metallic elements that have a high density and are generally toxic at low concentrations. They can accumulate in the environment and in organisms, causing harmful effects on human health and the ecosystem (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, 2007).
2: Sources of heavy metal contamination include industrial activities such as mining, smelting, and manufacturing; agricultural practices such as pesticide use and fertilizer application; and household products like batteries and electronics (World Health Organization, 2003).
3: The importance of heavy metals lies in their ability to cause a wide range of health problems in humans, including neurological disorders, kidney damage, and cancer. They can also have detrimental effects on the environment, such as disrupting ecosystems and contaminating water sources (United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2019).
4: Heavy metals are considered harmful because they can bioaccumulate in living organisms, leading to toxic effects over time. They can also persist in the environment for long periods, causing ongoing harm to ecosystems and human health. Additionally, heavy metals can interact with other chemicals in the environment, potentially increasing their toxicity (United Nations Environment Programme, 2013).