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Arsenic Pollution And Arsenic Contamination Essay

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Arsenic
Arsenic is a semi-metallic element that occurs naturally in the earth’s crust and has no taste or odor. In its pure, elemental state, arsenic is a grey solid. When arsenic is combined with other elements in the environment, it changes to a powder form that is either white or colorless. It is also difficult to distinguish. Traces of arsenic can be found in air, soil, water, and food. Although naturally occurring arsenic in the soil is usually only found in very low concentrations, some regions of the world contain arsenic-heavy deposits, which increases arsenic levels in the ground. These arsenic-rich areas have frequently contaminated groundwater supplies, which are often the only source of drinking water for local communities.

Introduction to Arsenic Contamination
Arsenic contamination in groundwater is a form of groundwater pollution that is typically caused due to high concentrations of arsenic in the groundwater. Arsenic contamination is a major issue because of the use of deep tubewells for water supply. This form of groundwater has caused serious arsenic poisoning to a large population. A study has found that over 137 million people from over seventy countries are affected by the arsenic contamination.

Causes of Arsenic Contamination
Incidents of arsenic contamination in groundwater can occur both naturally and industrially. The natural occurrence of arsenic in groundwater is directly related to the arsenic present in soils. Arsenic can be release from

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