Arsenic can not be destroyed in the environment, it can only change its shape or it can adhere to or separate from particles. Arsenic can change shape by reacting with oxygen or other molecules present in the air, water or soil, or by the action of bacteria living on the soil or sediment. Arsenic releasing power plants and other combustion processes is usually attached to very small particles. Arsenic dust contained in the wind is generally found in larger particles. These particles are deposited in the soil or removed from the air by rain. Arsenic that is adhered to very small particles can remain in the air for several days and can move long distances. Many common arsenic compounds can be dissolved in water. Therefore, arsenic can pass into
