Blue baby syndrome in drinking water is primarily associated with high levels of which pollutant?

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Study for the Grade 9 Environmental Chemistry Test. Use a blend of multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Master key concepts and prepare effectively!

Multiple Choice

Blue baby syndrome in drinking water is primarily associated with high levels of which pollutant?

Blue baby syndrome is caused by nitrates in drinking water. Infants can convert some of these nitrates to nitrites in their gut, and nitrite binds to the iron in hemoglobin to form methemoglobin, which can’t carry oxygen effectively. This reduces oxygen delivery to tissues and gives the skin a bluish tint around the lips and extremities. Infants are especially susceptible because their gut bacteria and hemoglobin make methemoglobinemia more likely at lower nitrate intakes. Other pollutants like lead, mercury, and arsenic cause different health problems (nervous system effects, toxicity in organs, cancer risk) and are not linked to this particular blue discoloration.

Blue baby syndrome in drinking water is primarily associated with high levels of which pollutant?

Study for the Grade 9 Environmental Chemistry Test. Use a blend of multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Master key concepts and prepare effectively!

Blue baby syndrome in drinking water is primarily associated with high levels of which pollutant?

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