Which of the following are considered mineral contaminants in water?

Mineral contaminants in water refer to naturally occurring substances that can affect water quality and can pose health risks or aesthetic concerns if present in excessive amounts. The correct answer highlights substances that are classified as minerals.

Iron and manganese are both common minerals found in groundwater and can cause staining and other issues in water supply systems. Carbon dioxide, while more typically associated with dissolved gases, can also react in water to form carbonic acid and alter pH levels, impacting mineral solubility. Hydrogen sulfide is a mineral that can produce a rotten egg odor and is often found in well water, contributing to taste and odor issues. These specific substances are important to consider in the context of water quality standards and human health, as they can cause both aesthetic concerns and potential health risks.

The other answer choices include compounds that do not fit as mineral contaminants. For instance, chlorine is a disinfectant and fluoride is often added to municipal water supplies for dental health but they do not naturally occur in the same way as the minerals listed in the correct choice. Lead and nitrates, while concerning contaminants, are often classified under heavy metals and anthropogenic sources rather than mineral contaminants. Sodium and potassium are elements that can be found in water but are not typically categorized with the specific mineral