Nitrate in ground water may indicate pollution from a septic tank, seepage from a barnyard, feedlot, or from heavily fertilized fields. Shallow wells of less than 50 feet and located in sandy soil areas are more likely to have high nitrates. An indicator of acid or alkali in a water sample. Water containing equal amounts of acid or alkali has a pH value of 7. Most ground water in Central Oklahoma has pH values ranging from around 5 to a little above 8.
Sodium occurs naturally in water and in water treated by water softeners.
Sodium in drinking water may be harmful to persons suffering from a heart condition, circulatory problems, high blood pressure, or kidney disease. Excessive intake of sodium may increase blood pressure and cause hypertension. A fluoride ion present in drinking water is absorbed to some degree in the bony structure of the body including the tooth enamel.