From cocaine to antihistamines, the surprising mix of chemicals detected after a day out at the river
Use the story and the accompanying summary slide to provide real-world context for 14–16 learners when studying water or analysis using instrumental techniques. Find out how human activities, such as tubing and swimming, significantly impact river chemistry. A US research group has studied contaminants present in the water at Clear Creek in Colorado and found organic contaminants including cocaine and pharmaceuticals such as antihistamines and anti-seizure medications after a busy public holiday.
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