1: Define heavy metal and toxicity?
2: source of heavy metal contamination?
3: impotence of heavy metals
4: why heavy metals considered harmful?
Provide citation to each question with references
1: Heavy metals are metallic elements that have a high atomic weight and density. They can be toxic to living organisms at low concentrations due to their ability to accumulate in bodily tissues and interfere with biological processes. (Source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry - https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaqs/tf.asp?id=30&tid=15)
2: Sources of heavy metal contamination include industrial activities such as mining, smelting, and manufacturing, as well as agricultural practices, improper disposal of waste, and natural sources such as volcanic eruptions and weathering of rocks. (Source: World Health Organization - https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/heavy-metals)
3: The importance of heavy metals lies in their potential to cause adverse health effects in humans and ecosystems. They can accumulate in the environment and food chain, leading to long-term exposure and health risks. Monitoring and regulating heavy metal levels are crucial for protecting human health and the environment. (Source: European Environment Agency - https://www.eea.europa.eu/signals/signals-2018-content-list/articles/heavy-metals-in-eu-agriculture)
4: Heavy metals are considered harmful because they can disrupt cellular functions, cause oxidative stress, damage DNA, and impair organ systems such as the nervous, cardiovascular, and reproductive systems. Chronic exposure to heavy metals has been linked to various health problems, including cancer, neurological disorders, and developmental effects in children. (Source: National Institutes of Health - https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/heavy-metals/index.cfm)