Heavy metal ions are called heavy because their masses are heavier than that of essential metallic ions. These ions are not essential because they are toxic to living organisms and are capable of causing death. They are present in both foods and drinking water, and are toxic because they prevent proteins in our bodies from performing their duty by binding to them. This makes the effects of heavy metal poisoning severe and can damage your nervous system, brain, kidneys, and liver. Some heavy metal ions include lead, mercury, and aluminum. The concentration of these ions increase as they are consumed by fish and shellfish, which makes consuming seafood dangerous in large amounts. Mercury and lead are most harmful because they are used in a lot of products. Lead, for example, is used in pottery, cooking vessels, pesticides, and paints. In the early 1800's lead was even used in pipes, contaminating the water. Mercury is used fluorescent light bulbs, thermometers, and paints. Unfortunately, if mercury (the only metallic element that is a liquid at room temperature) is exposed to the air, its vapor can escape and can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. This is what happened to hat makers in the 18th and 19th centuries. Mercury was used in felt hats and the workers came down with mercury poisoning which can cause numbness, staggered walk, tunnel vision, and brain damage. Those affected by it were referred to as, "mad as a hatter." To remove these harmful ions from entering the atmosphere and our water practices called Green Chemistry are used. These practices prevent pollution by eliminating the production and use of hazardous substances. To ensure our safety and health, using alternatives to these deadly ions help greatly.
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