Distribution of the trace elements in the surface waters of Primorye, Russia

A trace element study in surface waters of Primorye, Russian Far East, has established that there are significant regional differences in the composition of the waters. The main controls on trace metal concentrations include both: natural processes (geology of drainage area, meteoric transport, marine influence, and mixture with ground water) and anthropogenic activity, especially in the southern part of Primorye. The meteoric inputs of chemical elements to the surface waters of Primorye decrease in the order: Cu, Cd, Zn > Pb, Cs, Be, Ga, V > Ba, Rb, As, Li, > Al, Sr, Si. The order of elements contributed by pollution in Primorye are: Cu, Rb, As, Sr > Zn, Li, Cs, Ba, U > Cd, Ga, Co, Al, Si.