metal leaching

Metal leaching is the process where metals are gradually dissolved and released from solid materials, such as rocks or waste, into liquids like water. This occurs when certain chemicals, environmental conditions, or processes cause the metals to become soluble. For example, in mining or waste disposal, leaching can lead to metals from earth or materials contaminating nearby water sources, potentially harming ecosystems and human health. It’s a natural or engineered process that highlights the movement of metals from solid states into liquids, often requiring management to prevent environmental contamination.