Which of the following chemical(s) is/are released by industries that causes chemical contamination of water?

All of these

The correct answer is option 4. All of these.

1. Arsenic:

Arsenic is a toxic metalloid that can contaminate water through industrial activities such as mining, metal smelting, and wood preservation.

The release of arsenic into water sources can lead to serious health problems when consumed, including skin issues, cancers, and other internal organ damage.

2. Lead:

Lead is often released into water through industrial discharges, particularly from processes involving metal production, batteries, and paint manufacturing.

Exposure to lead-contaminated water can have severe health effects, especially in children, causing developmental issues, neurological damage, and other health problems.

3. Fluorides:

Industrial processes such as aluminum production, phosphate fertilizers, and certain chemical manufacturing activities release fluorides into water.

High levels of fluoride in drinking water can lead to dental and skeletal fluorosis, affecting teeth and bones. Chronic exposure to elevated fluoride levels can have adverse health effects.

Industrial activities must adhere to environmental regulations and standards to control and minimize the release of these contaminants into water bodies. Additionally, water treatment processes are employed to remove or reduce the concentration of these harmful substances, ensuring that water supplied to communities meets safe drinking water standards. Monitoring and regulatory measures are crucial to protect both human health and the environment from the adverse effects of chemical contamination in water.