Dissolved metals are metallic elements present in aqueous systems predominantly as hydrated ions or inorganic/organic complexes that pass through a defined filter pore size (commonly 0.45 μm). In environmental and geochemical research, they comprise species such as Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Pb, and others in true solution, excluding particulate or colloid-bound forms above the operational cutoff. Their speciation is governed by pH, redox potential, complexing ligands, and ionic strength, which in turn control mobility, bioavailability, and toxicity. Quantification typically uses techniques such as ICP-MS or ICP-OES after filtration and, in some protocols, acid preservation to maintain metals in dissolved form.
In the wake of a wildfire, a vital micronutrient can become a toxic heavy metal—and could eventually make its way into groundwater.
Earth Sciences
Dec 12, 2025
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Around the world, phytoplankton in the upper ocean help to cycle key nutrients and regulate Earth's climate by absorbing carbon dioxide. These photosynthesizing organisms rely on dissolved iron as an essential micronutrient, ...
Earth Sciences
Dec 11, 2025
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When fire broke out at the world's largest battery energy storage facility in January 2025, its thick smoke blanketed surrounding wetlands, farms and nearby communities on the central California coast.
Earth Sciences
Dec 1, 2025
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Aging lead-pipe drinking water systems, along with the public health measures implemented to reduce their risks, are reshaping the chemistry and health of nearby urban streams. New research from University of Pittsburgh biogeochemists, ...
Environment
Nov 13, 2025
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With the continuous expansion of industrial and agricultural activities, the contamination of water bodies and soils by heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) has become a severe global environmental challenge. These ...
Ecology
Oct 29, 2025
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21
A team of researchers in China has developed a new low-cost biochar material that can efficiently remove persistent metal complexes from water, offering a promising tool for improving water quality and environmental safety.
Environment
Oct 16, 2025
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24
According to a study by the Department of Physics and the Institute of Environmental Science and Technology of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (ICTA-UAB), the Mar Menor saltwater lagoon in Murcia, Spain, the largest ...
Earth Sciences
Oct 13, 2025
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23
Soil contamination is a global environmental concern, with toxic metals and metalloids from industrial activities persisting as long-term pollutants. Arsenic (As), although naturally occurring, becomes widespread when mobilized ...
Ecology
Oct 6, 2025
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20
Ice can dissolve iron minerals more effectively than liquid water, according to a new study from Umeå University. The discovery could help explain why many Arctic rivers are now turning rusty orange as permafrost thaws in ...
Earth Sciences
Sep 22, 2025
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162
An international team of scientists led by microbiologists Marc Mussmann and Alexander Loy from the University of Vienna has discovered a new microbial metabolism: so-called MISO bacteria "breathe" iron minerals by oxidizing ...
Earth Sciences
Aug 28, 2025
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