What is a primary purpose of site characterization?

• A. Identify the source, type, concentration, and extent of contamination
• B. All of the above
• C. Develop a site conceptual model
• D. Identify the contaminants' pathways and their deleterious effects on the public and environment

Answer: (B)

Site characterization builds a complete picture of what's contaminating a site and how that contamination behaves in the environment. It involves identifying the source, the type of contaminants, their concentrations, and how far and wide the contamination extends, because you need this information to assess risk and plan cleanup. It also leads to a site conceptual model, which ties together geology, hydrology, contaminant fate and transport, and potential receptors into a coherent framework for guiding sampling, modeling, and remediation decisions. In addition, characterizing the pathways contaminants can take and the potential effects on people and ecosystems helps prioritize protections and monitoring. Since all of these elements are integral to understanding a site, the primary purpose is best represented by considering them together.