Which contaminant category includes lead and mercury?

The category that includes lead and mercury is inorganic contaminants. These contaminants are defined by their chemical composition, which generally consists of minerals or metals. Inorganic contaminants can originate from various sources, including industrial discharges, mining activities, and even natural geological formations.

Lead and mercury are both heavy metals that pose significant health risks when they enter water supplies; for instance, lead can affect brain development in children, while mercury can impact the nervous system. In contrast, organic contaminants typically contain carbon and can arise from sources such as pesticides or industrial chemicals, while microbiological contaminants involve pathogens like bacteria and viruses. Physical contaminants refer to particles such as sand or silt. Understanding these categories is crucial for water quality management and ensuring safe drinking water standards.