Assessment of Some Selected Heavy Metals (Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd) Contamination in Kafin Hausa River using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy
Lawan Musa Yalwa, Sani Garba Durumin Iya, Ghali Ibrahim Abdulrazaq and Suleiman Bashir Adamu
Keywords: AAS, Contamination, Kafin Hausa, River, WHO.
Abstract
Water is the most crucial resource available on Earth’s surface and subsurface, yet the presence of heavy metals diminishes its usability. This study aimed to evaluate the presence and levels of selected heavy metals in the Kafin Hausa River, Jigawa State. Three water samples were collected from various sites along the river, and four metals (Zn, Pb, Cd, and Cu) were chosen for testing. After digestion, the samples were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The concentrations of metals detected in the water followed this order: Zn (ranging from 0.049 to 0.67 mg/L) > Cd (0.022 to 0.080 mg/L) > Pb (0.007 to 0.080 mg/L), with Cu undetectable (0.0 mg/L). Results indicated that Cu was absent, while Pb and Zn levels were below the standard thresholds, but Cd concentrations exceeded the acceptable limits. The calculated Nemerow’s Pollution Index revealed that Cd accounted for approximately 77% of pollution, followed by Pb at 22%, and Zn at 1%. Therefore, Cd poses a threat to individuals consuming the water, necessitating action from responsible authorities to reduce contaminant levels. Further research and monitoring of these sites are imperative, conducted by researchers and biomedical experts, to uncover the precise adverse effects of heavy metal contamination on humans, especially among vulnerable populations such as children.