Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Arsenic is a toxic chemical element that occurs naturally in the Earth's crust and can contaminate water sources. It poses serious health risks when ingested or inhaled.
Related terms
Heavy metals: Heavy metals are metallic elements with high atomic weights that can be toxic to living organisms when present in high concentrations.
Groundwater contamination: This refers to the pollution of underground water sources by harmful substances such as arsenic, which can make the water unsafe for consumption.