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NITRATE CONTAMINATION OF GROUND WATER (GW-761)
Citation:
AZADPOUR-KEELEY, ANN AND J. W. KEELEY. NITRATE CONTAMINATION OF GROUND WATER (GW-761). Chapter N/A, Lehr & Keeley (ed.), Water Encyclopedia: Ground Water. John Wiley & Sons Incorporated, New York, NY, 5:322-323, (2005).
Description:
The occurrence of nitrate and related compounds in ground water is discussed from the perspectives of its natural as well as anthropogenic origins. A brief explanation of the nitrogen cycle touches on the production as well as utilization of ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and nitrogen gas. In addition to outlining health problems associated with the ingestion of water contaminated with nitrates, reference is made of its importance as a fertilizer. Sources of nitrate contamination of ground water are outlined with emphasis on problems associated with rural water supply wells.