Which of the following processes causes accumulation of heavy metals such as lead and mercury in soil?
Improper disposal of industrial wastes
The correct answer is Improper disposal of industrial wastes.
Heavy metals like lead and mercury are not naturally abundant in soil in significant quantities. Natural soil formation (option 1) involves the weathering of rocks and the decomposition of organic matter, processes that don't typically lead to the accumulation of these toxic metals. Water evaporation (option 2) is a hydrological process and doesn't directly contribute to heavy metal accumulation in soil. Ozone layer depletion (option 3) primarily affects the atmosphere and doesn't have a direct causal relationship with soil contamination by heavy metals.
In contrast, improper disposal of industrial wastes (option 4) is a major source of heavy metal contamination. Industries often release wastewater and solid waste containing these metals. If these wastes are not properly managed, they can leach into the soil, causing significant accumulation and posing a severe environmental and health hazard. The metals can then enter the food chain, impacting ecosystems and human health.
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