Question

During a field experiment, students tested the effects of adding heavy metals to samples of water. Samples of water were taken from a pond. Different heavy metals were then added to each sample. After the experiment was complete, what is the best way to dispose of the samples?

a) Pour them back into the pond from which they were taken.
b) Pour them on soil that is located far from the pond.
c) Pour them on sand located along the edge of the pond.
d) Pour them into a chemical waste container in the laboratory.

Answer 1

The best way to dispose of water samples from an experiment with heavy metals is to pour them into a chemical waste container in the laboratory to prevent environmental contamination.

Step-by-step explanation:

During a field experiment, students tested the effects of adding heavy metals to samples of water. Different heavy metals were added to each sample, changing their chemical composition. Once the experiment is completed, the best way to dispose of these metal-laden water samples is option (d) pour them into a chemical waste container in the laboratory. This avoids further contamination of the environment, including the pond, soil, and sand.

Heavy metals introduced into the ecosystem can have severe consequences, such as contaminating drinking water sources or harming aquatic and terrestrial life. Safe disposal in a chemical waste container ensures that these substances will be handled appropriately, often by neutralizing them or limiting their spread into different environmental compartments. Disposing of water samples with added heavy metals in a chemical waste container ensures proper containment and prevents potential environmental contamination. Pouring them back into the pond or on soil could have adverse effects on the ecosystem, as heavy metals can be harmful to aquatic life and soil quality. It's essential to follow proper disposal procedures to minimize environmental impact and ensure the safety of the surroundings.