Lead contamination of drinking water is primarily caused by...

Lead contamination of drinking water is primarily caused by corrosion within the distribution system and residential plumbing. This occurs when lead pipes, fittings, or fixtures corrode due to various factors such as water acidity, temperature, and the presence of other chemicals. Over time, this corrosion can release lead particles into the water supply, leading to contamination.

In older homes and infrastructure, lead plumbing materials were commonly used, and as these systems age, the risk of lead leaching into drinking water increases. The presence of lead in drinking water poses significant health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women, making it a critical public health concern.

While naturally occurring sources, industrial pollution, and automobile exhaust can contribute to environmental lead levels, they are not the primary sources of lead contamination specifically in drinking water.