Determine The Contamination of Heavy Metals in Rural Soils from Benghazi-Libya

Abstract

This study analyzed the concentrations of cadmium and iron in soil samples collected from various locations, focusing on identifying the range and distribution of these heavy metals in the environment. The cadmium concentrations ranged from 0.012 to 0.044 mg/L, with the highest concentration found near a road (sample 19). The majority of samples showed cadmium levels between 0.014 and 0.022 mg/L. Iron concentrations ranged from 13.916 to 20.230 mg/L, with sample 18 exhibiting the highest concentration. Elevated iron concentrations were observed in several samples, particularly those with values above 19 mg/L. The highest levels of cadmium and iron were funded in samples located near roads or potentially contaminated areas, suggesting the influence of anthropogenic activities such as traffic, industrial operations, and the use of phosphate-based fertilizers.