ANALYSIS OF SELECTED SOIL SAMPLES FROM LAPAI, NIGERIA USING MICROWAVE PLASMA ATOMIC EMISSION SPECTROSCOPY

Abstract

Microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy is a multi-elemental, less expensive instrumental technique introduced as an alternative to more costly inductively coupled plasma techniques. This technique offers a lower maintenance cost, relatively lower cost, good speed, and detection. In this study, the concentrations of Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, and Zn in selected soil samples were determined using this technique. Three regions were randomly selected for investigation within Cece Village. Samples were collected from the top and lower soil horizons in areas A and B and river sediments using the random grab method with appropriate sampling tools. The samples were processed in the laboratory, including sieving, pulverizing, and digestion. The results of this study revealed that trace concentrations in mg/kg of chromium had the highest value (1.50 ± 0.08) and lowest value (0.50 ± 0.03), copper had the highest value (28.50 ± 1.50) and lowest value (1.12 ± 0.06), iron had the highest value (303.51 ± 11.01) and lowest value (152.04 ± 7.03), magnesium had the highest value (273.52 ± 11.41) and lowest value (1.50 ± 0.08), and zinc had the highest value (170.51 ± 51) and the lowest value (162.12 ± 7.04). The findings of this study revealed that the concentrations of the elements found in various soil samples were within permissible limits. This suggests that the sampled region is safe for crop cultivation and other agricultural activities.