Contaminant fate and transport

Contaminant fate and transport describe how harmful substances move and change in the environment. Fate refers to what ultimately happens to the contaminant—whether it breaks down, settles out, or remains unchanged. Transport explains how the contaminant travels through air, water, or soil, influenced by processes like spreading, diffusion, or flowing with water or wind. Factors such as weather, soil type, and chemical properties determine the speed and path of movement. Understanding these processes helps evaluate environmental risks and develop strategies to prevent or clean up pollution.