Geo-statistical distribution of heavy metals in Karoon river's soil by geographic information system

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Soil has an important role in nutrient cycle and an important function in storage, refinement, and movement of nutrients for the living and non-living parts. Soil pollution of heavy metals and elements is one of the common pollution impacts of human activities, especially industry. Realization of distribution pattern of these elements and their anthropogenic sources is a major part of environmental protection plans. In the present study, concentration of two major heavy metals were investigated and mapped using geostatistical methods throughout western part of Karoon river in Ahwaz city. Four land areas including urban areas, agricultural, industrial, and bare soils were applied