Spatial Distribution of Trace Metals occurrence in Groundwater around selected Areas of Ogbomoso, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

The present increase in human population most especially in urban and rural areas requires an understanding of good quality of groundwater in preventing diseases and improving quality of life. This study was carried out to ascertain the extent of trace metals contamination in the study area. The area is underlain by the Nigerian Basement Complex consisting of pre-cambrian rocks. A total of twenty-four (24) water samples were collected from shallow hand dug wells in the study area. Parameters such as static water level, elevations, coordinate of each of the water sample locations were recorded. Water samples were analysed for trace metals using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) and titration method to determine the chemical quality of the groundwater in the study area. Eight trace metals were analysed which include copper, chromium, cobalt, nickel, lead, zinc, manganese and cadmium. Spatial distribution of these trace metals were plotted. The study shows that most of the shallow groundwater in the study area are contaminated with respect to trace metals. High amount of these trace metals above the maximum recommended levels attributed to the pollution from anthropogenic sources (domestic and industrial). There should be treatment of shallow groundwater in the study area before use and continuous monitoring of the groundwater in the area should be carried out.