Effects of acidification on the mobility of metals and metalloids: an overview

The exchange rates for metals and metalloids between sediments, soils, water and aquatic biota are discussed in terms of normal and acidified ecosystems. Where it is possible, the pathways for a number of toxic elements are presented with special emphasis on the impact of acidification on changing chemical speciation, and on the potential toxicity of such acid-generated chemical species. Concerns for the impact of acidification on the stability of ecosystems, the safety of drinking water, bioaccumulation in fish and in plants are addressed.