Contaminants

Question 1

What is the difference between pollutant and contaminant?

Answer 1

pollution is due to the influence or activities of humans

contamination may occur naturally

Question 2

Name some inorganic contaminants

Answer 2

metals: Pb, Cd

matalloids: As, Se

non-metals (nutrients): SO4 ^2-, NO3 ^-, PO4 ^3-

radioactive isotopes: Cs-137, Rn-222

gases: CO, CO2, NOx, SO4

Question 3

Name som organic contaminants

Answer 3

petroleum hydrocarbons

chlorinated solvents

(containing C)

Question 4

What are some sources of metals in the environment?

Answer 4

• mining and smelting
• release as waste or by-products
  • industrial manufacturing
  • combustion products
  • coal, oil, wood

Question 5

What are the six macrominerals

Answer 5

Na, K, Ca, Mg, Cl, and P

Question 6

What are the nine trace minerals (microminerals)

Answer 6

Cr, Cu, I, Fe, F, Mn, Mo, Se, Zn

OBS, most elements are needed in smal doses

Question 7

Name some metals and there hazardousnes

Answer 7

Extremely hazardous: Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium, Mercury

Very hazardous: Cobolt, Copper, Chromium (III), Nickel

Moderately hazardous: Aluminium, Zink

Slightly hazardous: Iron, Calcium, Magnesium, Manganese