There are several analytical chemistry techniques that can be used to detect and quantify the presence of heavy metals such as lead and mercury in soil and water samples. Some of the most common methods include:1. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy AAS : AAS is a widely used technique for the determination of heavy metals in environmental samples. It works by measuring the absorption of light by free atoms in the gaseous state. The sample is first atomized, and then the atoms absorb ultraviolet or visible light, causing electrons to transition to higher energy levels. The amount of light absorbed is proportional to the concentration of the element in the sample.2. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry ICP-MS : ICP-MS is a highly sensitive and accurate technique for the determination of trace elements, including heavy metals, in various matrices. The sample is introduced into an inductively coupled plasma, where it is ionized. The ions are then separated by their mass-to-charge ratio and detected by a mass spectrometer. The concentration of the element is determined based on the intensity of the detected ions.3. Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy ICP-OES : ICP-OES is another technique used for the determination of heavy metals in environmental samples. It is similar to ICP-MS, but instead of detecting ions, it measures the intensity of emitted light from the excited atoms in the plasma. The intensity of the emitted light is proportional to the concentration of the element in the sample.4. X-ray Fluorescence XRF : XRF is a non-destructive technique used for the analysis of heavy metals in solid samples, such as soil. The sample is irradiated with high-energy X-rays, causing the atoms to emit characteristic X-ray fluorescence. The energy and intensity of the emitted X-rays are used to determine the concentration of the elements in the sample.Potential risks and impacts of heavy metal contaminants on human health and the environment:Heavy metals such as lead and mercury are toxic and can have severe impacts on human health and the environment. Some of the potential risks and impacts include:1. Human health: Exposure to heavy metals can lead to various health issues, depending on the level and duration of exposure. Lead poisoning can cause neurological damage, developmental delays, and cognitive impairment, especially in children. Mercury poisoning can lead to kidney damage, neurological disorders, and developmental problems in fetuses and young children.2. Aquatic life: Heavy metals can accumulate in aquatic ecosystems, leading to toxic effects on fish and other aquatic organisms. This can result in reduced biodiversity, disrupted food chains, and the potential for bioaccumulation and biomagnification of heavy metals in the food web.3. Soil quality: Heavy metals can contaminate soil, reducing its fertility and affecting plant growth. This can lead to reduced crop yields and the potential for heavy metal uptake by plants, which can then enter the food chain.4. Groundwater contamination: Heavy metals can leach into groundwater, contaminating drinking water sources and posing risks to human health and aquatic ecosystems.To mitigate the risks and impacts of heavy metal contamination, it is essential to monitor and regulate industrial processes that release these contaminants into the environment, as well as to implement remediation strategies for contaminated sites.