ChemCom Unit IC
Section C.5
Bill Grossier, Glenbard South High School
Heavy-metals are a possible cause of the fish kill described in the first chapter. Follow this self guided tutorial to learn more about heavy-metal contamination.
Book and Internet Research/Reading
Questions: Unit IC page 54, Section C.5
Answer all the following questions using
complete sentences. Take time to read the book and web pages
thoroughly! Question 3 should be a complete paragraph!
Toxicology Information Briefs: Bioaccumulation
Signs and
Symptoms of Minamata Disease
EPA
Lead in Drinking
Water Site
2. List the parts of the human body that are affected most by heavy metals. Next to each system listed, describe the function of the system. (For example: Eyes : function to provide vision)
3. Why do humans often become contaminated with heavy metals by eating sea food? Include the following terms in context in your explanation: Bioaccumulation, bioconcentration, biomagnification, dynamic equilibrium.
4.Pictures of children with Minamata Disease are shown on the left. What
chemical is responsible for the disease? (Additional
photos.)
5.Based on the diagram, how did the bioaccumulation of the chemical occur in these children?
6. The man below is suffering from lead poisoning.
What are some
common sources of lead in the environment today?
7. Who is most at risk from lead poisoning? Explain why?
8. What are the two ways that you can to reduce your own lead consumption. Be specific! (Exact times etc.)