Contamination of groundwater with heavy metals and its impact on soil and plants – A review

Abstract

Heavy metals are naturally occurring compound elements that exist in many forms in the environment and the Earth’s biosphere. It is any metallic chemical element with a high density that is hazardous or dangerous at tiny concentrations. Mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), copper (Cu), and nickel are examples of heavy metals (Ni). These elements are mostly found in water and soil. These natural elements are created by the weathering of parent materials and should occur as a result of human actions. Heavy metal contamination is a severe issue due to its toxicity and ease of propagation in the biotic world. It also has serious consequences for animals, soils, crops, and humans. In this work, we will primarily examine heavy metal contamination in groundwater and its impact on soil. These elements are beneficial to both plants and humans, but exceeding the safe limit generates pollution and has a negative impact on the ecosystem. Heavy metal contamination in soil degrades land and poses a risk to soil and plant growth.