Soil contamination

Science

Definition

Soil contamination occurs when harmful chemicals, heavy metals, pesticides, or industrial waste accumulate in soil at levels that pose risks to human health and ecosystems. Contaminants can enter soil through spills, improper waste disposal, agricultural chemicals, and atmospheric deposition.

Examples

  • Lead contamination near old paint factories making soil unsafe for gardening
  • Pesticide residues accumulating in agricultural soil over decades
  • Industrial sites with heavy metal contamination requiring expensive remediation

Related Terms

Soil composition Water pollution Toxicology Groundwater

Study This Concept

Practice soil contamination with free review games in these units:

AP Environmental Science Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution