Groundwater contamination can occur from a variety of sources, both natural and anthropogenic. Natural sources include the movement of dissolved metals and minerals from rocks and soils into the water. Anthropogenic sources, however, are more concerning in the context of toxicology. Common contaminants include pesticides, industrial chemicals, and heavy metals like lead and mercury. These substances can infiltrate groundwater through agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and improper waste disposal.
