Contaminants can be broadly classified into several categories:
Biological Contaminants: These include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that can lead to infectious diseases. Chemical Contaminants: These are synthetic or natural substances such as pesticides, industrial chemicals, and heavy metals like lead and mercury. Physical Contaminants: Particles or objects that can cause physical harm, such as plastic debris, asbestos fibers, and glass shards. Radiological Contaminants: Radioactive substances that emit ionizing radiation, posing risks to human health through exposure.