Which is an example of non-point source contamination of groundwater?

Non-point source contamination refers to pollutants that come from a diffuse source rather than a single identifiable source. In the context of groundwater contamination, practices that lead to widespread or scattered pollution across a broad area, rather than from a specific point of discharge, are considered non-point sources.

Sandy soil with low organic matter can contribute to non-point source contamination because it affects how water interacts with the land and can lead to the leaching of agricultural chemicals or nutrient runoff. In such soils, rainwater can easily percolate through and transport pesticides, fertilizers, and other contaminants into the groundwater, making it a classic case of non-point source pollution.

In contrast, leaking storage tanks, improper disposal of pesticide containers, and wastewater discharge represent point sources of contamination, as they typically originate from a specific, identifiable location. These sources are easier to regulate and manage since the pollution can be traced back to a specific container or structure.