What is leachate?

Leachate is specifically defined as the liquid that results when water seeps through waste materials in a landfill. As rainwater or other moisture percolates through the layers of waste, it can dissolve various substances, including organic and inorganic compounds, leading to the creation of leachate. This liquid often contains a complex mixture of pollutants that can pose environmental risks if not properly managed. It is crucial for landfill management systems to effectively deal with leachate to prevent contamination of groundwater and surrounding ecosystems.

In contrast, the other options refer to different aspects of waste management or landfill operation. The solid waste remaining after recycling does not encapsulate the essence of leachate, nor does the gas released from decomposing waste adequately describe it, as gas refers to volatile substances produced during waste decomposition. Similarly, organic material used in landfills does not relate to the definition of leachate, as it pertains to the types of materials disposed of rather than the liquid generated from those materials.