Name one heavy metal that can commonly contaminate drinking water.

Lead is a heavy metal that can commonly contaminate drinking water, primarily due to corrosion of pipes that are made of lead or lead-soldered joints. When water moves through these pipes, it can leach lead into the water supply, particularly in older infrastructures. Lead exposure is particularly concerning because it can cause serious health issues, especially in children, affecting their development and causing cognitive impairments.

While arsenic, mercury, and cadmium are also heavy metals that can contaminate drinking water, lead is one of the most prevalent in urban areas with aging water systems. Understanding the sources and impacts of lead contamination is essential for public health initiatives aimed at ensuring safe drinking water.