nitratos

Nitratos, also known as nitrates, are inorganic compounds containing the nitrate ion, NO3-. This ion consists of one nitrogen atom covalently bonded to three oxygen atoms, with an overall negative charge. Nitrates are highly soluble in water and are naturally found in the environment, playing a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle.

In nature, nitrates are formed from the decomposition of organic matter and the oxidation of ammonia. Plants readily absorb nitrates from the soil as an essential nutrient for growth, as they are a primary source of nitrogen for protein synthesis. Animals obtain nitrates by consuming plants or other animals.

While nitrates are vital for life, excessive concentrations in drinking water can pose health risks, particularly to infants. High nitrate levels can interfere with the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, leading to a condition called methemoglobinemia, or "blue baby syndrome." For adults, research is ongoing regarding potential links between high nitrate intake and certain health issues, though the evidence is not conclusive.

Human activities, such as agricultural fertilization and wastewater discharge, are significant contributors to increased nitrate levels in water bodies. This can lead to eutrophication, a process where excessive nutrient enrichment causes algal blooms that deplete oxygen and harm aquatic ecosystems. Managing nitrate pollution is therefore an important environmental concern.