PFAS
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances
Scientific: Environmental ProtectionEnvironmental Science / Water Contamination
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been widely used in products since the 1940s. They are known for their resistance to heat, oil, and water, making them useful in a variety of applications. However, PFAS do not break down easily in the environment and can accumulate in soil, water, and living organisms. This persistence has led to concerns about their potential health effects.
contaminants
Substances that pollute or contaminate a substance.
Scientific: Environmental ProtectionEnvironmental Science / Water Contamination
Contaminants are substances that make something impure or unhealthy. They can be found in air, water, soil, and food. Contaminants can come from natural sources, like volcanic eruptions, or human activities, like industrial waste.
toxic
Poisonous or harmful.
Scientific: PharmaceuticalsEnvironmental Science / Toxicology
Toxic means something is harmful to living things. Exposure to toxic substances can cause a range of health problems, from mild irritation to serious illness or death.
remediation
The process of cleaning up pollution or contamination.
Scientific: Environmental ConsultingEnvironmental Science / Pollution Control
Remediation is the process of removing or reducing pollution from the environment. This can involve a variety of methods, such as removing contaminated soil or water, treating wastewater, or using plants to absorb pollutants.
polymer
A large molecule made up of many repeating units.
Scientific: Chemical ManufacturingChemistry / Materials Science
Polymers are large molecules made up of many smaller units called monomers. They are found in a wide variety of materials, from plastics and rubber to natural fibers like cotton and wool.
ions
Atoms or molecules with an electrical charge.
Scientific: Chemical ManufacturingChemistry / Electrochemistry
Ions are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost electrons, giving them a net electrical charge. Positively charged ions are called cations, while negatively charged ions are called anions.