Raskasmetalleiksi

Raskasmetalleiksi refers to a group of metallic chemical elements that have a high density and are toxic or poisonous even at low concentrations. While the term "heavy metal" is common, it's not scientifically precise as it doesn't strictly refer to atomic weight alone. Instead, it encompasses metals and metalloids that exhibit similar toxicological properties. Commonly recognized heavy metals include lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, and chromium. These elements occur naturally in the Earth's crust but can be released into the environment through various human activities such as industrial processes, mining, burning fossil fuels, and improper disposal of waste.

Heavy metals can enter the food chain and accumulate in living organisms, leading to a range of health problems. For humans, exposure can cause neurological damage, developmental issues, kidney damage, and various cancers, depending on the specific metal and the level of exposure. Due to their persistence in the environment, they pose a long-term risk to ecosystems and human health. Efforts to mitigate the risks associated with heavy metals involve controlling industrial emissions, improving waste management practices, and monitoring environmental contamination levels.