Behavior and evaluation of potentially toxic metals (Cu(II), Cr(III), Pb(II) and Fe(III)) in surface waters of streams Capivara and streams Bacuri Imperatriz-MA, Brazil

ABSTRACT

This research evaluated the dynamics and distribution of Cu (II), Cr (III), Pb (II) and Fe (III) in samples of surface water in the streams Capivara and streams Bacuri in Imperatriz city, Maranhão state, Brazil. There were two water sampling points upstream and downstream of the city of Imperatriz to evaluate the influence of urbanization. Were analyzed the potentially toxic metals (Cu (II), Cr (III), Pb(II) and Fe(III)) and the following physical and chemical parameters: pH, total dissolved solids, turbidity and electrical conductivity. Measurements of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Fe(III) were made by means of atomic absorption spectrometry in the flame (FAAS). The variations observed for the physical and chemical parameters (pH, Conductivity and Total Dissolved Solids Turbidity) indicate changes in water quality due to human actions. We observed the systematic presence of all metals investigated over the sampling points. The results showed that Cu (II), Cr (III), Pb (II) and Fe (III) are preferentially associated with suspended particulate matter (SPM). The variations observed for the physical and chemical parameters and concentrations of the metals investigated indicate a contribution of anthropogenic character associated with the lithology region, which along with the seasonality and diffuse and point source contribute to the deterioration of surface water body of water

Keyword:
surface water; total metals; dissolved metals.