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Which of the following are the sources of arsenic contamination.
  1. Weathering of rocks and minerals followed by leaching and runoff.
  2. Intense exploitation of groundwater
  3. Iron coprecipitation
  4. Burning of coal
Select the correct answer code:
  • a)
    1, 2, 3 
  • b)
    1, 2, 4 
  • c)
    2, 3, 4 
  • d)
    1, 2, 3, 4
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
Most Upvoted Answer
Which of the following are the sources of arsenic contamination. Weath...
  • The sources of arsenic are natural or may partly stem from anthropogenic activities like intense exploitation of groundwater, application of fertilizers, burning of coal and leaching of metals from coal-ash tailings.
  • Arseni is introduced into soil and groundwater during weathering of rocks and minerals followed by subsequent leaching and runoff.
  • Among the various arsenic removal technologies, lime softening and iron coprecipitation have been reported to be the most effective.
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Community Answer
Which of the following are the sources of arsenic contamination. Weath...
Sources of Arsenic Contamination:

1. Weathering of rocks and minerals followed by leaching and runoff:
- Arsenic is naturally present in rocks and minerals, and its release into the environment occurs through weathering processes.
- When rocks and minerals containing arsenic are exposed to water and air, they undergo chemical reactions that release arsenic into the surrounding soil and water.
- This arsenic can then be leached into groundwater or carried away by surface runoff, leading to contamination of drinking water sources.

2. Intense exploitation of groundwater:
- Groundwater is a common source of drinking water for many communities.
- Intense exploitation of groundwater through excessive pumping can lead to the lowering of the water table, causing changes in the flow patterns of groundwater.
- This can result in the mobilization of naturally occurring arsenic from rocks and minerals, leading to its increased presence in groundwater.
- The overuse of groundwater without proper monitoring and management can exacerbate arsenic contamination.

3. Iron coprecipitation:
- Iron coprecipitation is a process where arsenic binds with iron compounds and precipitates out of water.
- If the water contains high levels of iron, arsenic can co-precipitate with iron and get deposited in sediments or accumulate in pipes and distribution systems.
- When the conditions change, such as a change in pH or dissolved oxygen levels, the arsenic can be released back into the water, contributing to contamination.

4. Burning of coal:
- Arsenic is a trace element present in coal, and when coal is burned for energy production or industrial processes, arsenic is released into the atmosphere.
- This airborne arsenic can then deposit onto soil and water bodies through atmospheric deposition, contaminating both surface and groundwater sources.
- In areas where coal combustion is prevalent, such as coal-fired power plants or industrial areas, the burning of coal can be a significant source of arsenic contamination.

In conclusion, the correct answer is option B (1, 2, 4) as weathering of rocks and minerals, intense exploitation of groundwater, and burning of coal are all sources of arsenic contamination. Iron coprecipitation, although a potential source, is not mentioned in the given options.
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Which of the following are the sources of arsenic contamination. Weathering of rocks and minerals followed by leaching and runoff. Intense exploitation of groundwater Iron coprecipitation Burning of coalSelect the correct answer code:a)1, 2, 3b)1, 2, 4c)2, 3, 4d)1, 2, 3, 4Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
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