Heavy Metal Pollution of Water Sources "Šićki Brod" and "Studenac" Due to the Exploitation of Coal

Abstract

The article aims to determine the levels of water pollution by concrete measurements of heavy metals in the water sources "Šićki Brod" and "Studenac". Sampling of water from both sources as well as analysis of the content of the heavy metal elements in the water was carried out. All analyzed elements are classified into the group of heavy metals, which take second place (after pesticides) in terms of harmful effects if found in the environment. Heavy metals are ecologically very important because they are non-degradable and do not disappear, but move through the ecosystem and have a normal biogeochemical cycle. Considering the mining works that were carried out in the area near to source, the impact of mining works on the pollution of water sources was put into comparison.