Environmental chemistry is the scientific study of the chemical and biochemical phenomena that occur in natural places. It includes Aquatic chemistry and soil chemistry but should not be confused with Green chemistry.
One of the main uses of Environmental Chemistry is the use of quantitative chemical analysis, to better understand the chemistry of natural systems or as an investigative tool by bodies such as the environment agency to identify, for instance levels of contaminants discharged by industry into water, soil or air. Environmental chemistry is used to identify levels of nitrate/phosphate being leached from agricultural land into water courses which can lead to algal blooms and eutrophication, this application is especially valid in nitrate vulnerable zones where agriculture can severely impact on natural systems if left unchecked.
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