Spatial distribution of potentially toxic elements in soils and water bodies of the Kostanay region in Kazakhstan

Knowledge of the distribution patterns of potentially toxic elements (PTE) is essential for assessing and predicting the dynamics of landscapes under anthropogenic influences. As a case study, soil-forming rocks, soils and water bodies of the Kostanay region in the Republic of Kazakhstan were studied for the presence of potentially toxic elements (PTE) through analysing concentrations of different chemical elements within them. Study areas were selected across the region - ones with differing natural settings and liable to differing anthropogenic influences from industrial and agricultural landuses - and specific key sites were selected in each area from which soil and water samples were taken. Soil profiles were extracted, with the deepest horizons being taken as indicative of underlying soil-forming rocks, and with the upper horizons being taken as indicative of the soil per se. Soil samples were taken from soil profiles along horizons to study the distribution of chemical elements. These samples were analysed using the atomic absorption method to determine their respective contents of differing chemical elements, and hence PTE. The obtained data suggests the spatial distribution of PTEs across the soils and water bodies of the Kostanay region.