Assessment and investigation of trace element in soils with reference to Geo-accumulation Index: Jalgaon District, Northern Maharashtra (India)

Assessment and investigation of trace elements Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn in soil and compares its quality. Nineteen sampling points were select the representing agricultural fields, industrial discharges, river-tributary confluence points and settlement located along river banks. Sampling was carried out in post monsoon 2010 and pre monsoon season 2011. Trace elements were analysed by using flame furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The mean concentration of Fe (38.25 ppm) followed by Mn (3.39 ppm), Pb (1.028 ppm), Cd (0.095 ppm), Cu (0.56 ppm), Ni (0.536 ppm) and Zn (0.532 ppm) was found.

The evaluation of anthropogenic influence and contamination with trace elements in soil of study area was carried out using geo accumulation index. Soil geo-accumulation index (Igeo) shows maximum values Cd (0.014) and least value of Ni (−4.011). The geo-accumulation class (Igeo class) sequence was observed to be Cd > Pb > Zn > Cu > Ni > Mn > Fe. Negative total geo-accumulation indices (Itot) discovered shows concentration of trace elements in soil is lower than those of basalt values. The data suggests that negligible geo-accumulation with trace element except Cd and Pb (slightly contamination) and proves the degree of obtainable trace element concentration in soil from Northern part of Maharashtra, does not exceed than toxic limits.