Concentration of heavy metals
The results exhibit variations in mean and range values across different counties, indicating spatial differences in heavy metal contamination. The presence of heavy metals in drinking water can originate from various sources. Industrial activities, including mining, metal production, and waste disposal, are common culprits. The concentrations of heavy metals, including Arsenic (As), Lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr), and Cadmium (Cd) is presented in Table 3.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has established maximum acceptable limits for As, Pb, Cr, and Cd in drinking water, set at 10, 50, 10, and 3 µg/L, respectively. According to the data in Table 3, the concentrations of As, Pb, Cr, and Cd in the studied counties were generally within acceptable ranges based on the WHO. In terms of As concentration, the mean values ranged from 0.26 (Pasrgad) to 1.42 (Fasa) across the different counties. Although no values exceeded the WHO guideline of 10 µg/L, some counties, such as Jahrom, Fasa, and Sarvestan exhibited relatively higher concentrations compared to other areas. However, it is important to consider that some…
