8.3-Endocrine Disruptors and Industrial Water Pollutants

Describe endocrine disruptors

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with the endocrine system of animals.

Describe the effects of endocrine disruptors on ecosystems.

Enodcrine disruptors can lead to birth defects, developmental disorders, and gender imbalances in fish and other species.

How do endocrine disruptors effect hormones?

They block the hormone from being received or they amplify the hormone's effects.

What is attazine?

Broad-spectrum herbicide used to control weeds and prevent crop loss.

What is DDT?

Broad-spectrum insecticide that was phased out, but still persists in environment.

What are phthalates?

Compounds used in plastic and cosmetic manufacturing.

Name three heavy metals.

Lead, arsenic, and mercury.

What is mercury?

Naturally occurring in coal, released by anthropogenic activities.

What is arsenic?

Naturally occurring element in rocks underground that can dissolve into drinking water.

Where is lead found?

Found in old paint, old water pipes, and soils contaminated by PM from vehicle exhaust.

What can coal ash be a source of?

Mercury, lead, and arsenic.