What materials can be found in leachate?

Leachate is a liquid that has percolated through solid waste and has extracted dissolved or suspended materials from it. When waste breaks down, it can contribute a complex mixture of pollutants to the leachate. This includes both dissolved materials, which are substances that have dissolved in the leachate, and suspended materials, which are tiny particles that are not dissolved but remain mixed in the liquid.

The presence of both dissolved and suspended materials in leachate is significant, as it can vary widely depending on factors such as the composition of the waste, environmental conditions, and the age of the waste. For example, pesticides, fertilizers, organic compounds, metals, and various microorganisms can be found in leachate, contributing to its potential hazard.

Thus, efficient testing, monitoring, and management of leachate are crucial in waste management practices to prevent environmental contamination. The option that states both dissolved and suspended materials can be found in leachate accurately captures the complexity and variability of leachate composition, highlighting its potential environmental implications.