Post from team member Emma and an awesome introduction to heavy metal issues!
Imagine toxins building up and contaminating your body, with no way
to get rid of it. That is what heavy metals in our environment do. They are
hazardous to animals, people, and plants on our planet. Even though low
levels are needed, prolonged levels can be fatal.
Heavy metals are any metallic chemical that has a high density and
is poisonous. Lead, coal, arsenic and mercury are a few examples of the
naturally occurring heavy metals. Though there are some in the earths
crust, others can be found in coal mining, medical and industrial waste,
fertilizers, and herbicides. They enter us through food, water, and air. Over
time, it builds up in our bodies and can eventually cause damage to the
brain and central nervous system.
The heavy metals on our challenge table are represented by a blue
ball. We think that the robot will have to be programmed to avoid pushing
the ball into the water. In reality, if increased levels of heavy metals get into
our water, it can poison fish, and all sea life.
Sources:
http://www.Lenntech.com, Heavy Metals
http://www.pollutioninpeople.org, A Project of the Toxic-free Legacy Coalition
No comments:
Post a Comment