Introduction:
Lead, mercury,
iron, copper, manganese, cadmium, arsenic, nickel,
aluminum, silver and beryllium are considered heavy
metals. These metals have a variety of uses and in small
quantity are harmless. In some cases, some of these
metals are necessary for our bodies to function
properly. When that quantity increases however, many
problems arise. These heavy metals are very toxic if
they are ingested in abnormal quantities. |
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This amount does not have to be
very great. Lead poisoning is probably the most common of the
heavy metals because of its use in home products. Historically
lead pipes were used to transport water into the house. Lead was
also used in paint and gasoline. There are still old homes with
lead based paint on their walls. Mercury is a yellowish liquid
that is very toxic and is still used in thermometers. All of
these metals are used in various industries today and a big
question that remains is whether the metals make it into the
water system and pollute our drinking water. This is very
possible and in some cases a proven fact. If these metals are
ingested, they could create several serious illnesses. As a
result, it is to no surprise that there is extensive research
done to find the metals, and more importantly to detoxify our
water.
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