Contaminant Plume
A contaminant plume is a body of contaminated water or soil that spreads from a source of pollution, such as a leaking underground storage tank or a hazardous waste site. The contaminants can include chemicals, heavy metals, or other harmful substances that can affect the environment and human health. The plume typically moves through groundwater or soil, creating a gradient of concentration that decreases with distance from the source.
Monitoring and managing contaminant plumes is essential for protecting ecosystems and communities. Techniques such as groundwater sampling and remediation are used to assess the extent of the plume and to develop strategies for cleanup. Understanding the behavior of a contaminant plume helps in mitigating its impact on drinking water sources and surrounding areas.