Toxicity of Heavy Metals

Abstract

Because of their tendency to persist in the atmosphere, their toxicity, and their capacity to bioaccumulate within our bodies, heavy metals are recognized as environmental contaminants. The pollution of the aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems contaminated with hazardous heavy metals is a major environmental concern, with consequences for public health. Heavy metals are generally found in nature, but some of them are derived from so-called anthropogenic sources. The characterization of heavy metals is based on their toxicity to living organisms and their high atomic mass. Most heavy metals can cause atmospheric and environmental pollution and may also be lethal to humans. The combination of heavy metals with various environmental factors, such as soil, air, and water, as well as human beings, can make them more poisonous. Additionally, other living organisms could come into contact with heavy metals via the food chain.