Abstract
There are many sources of underground water in the Middle Benue Trough, which have varying composition and constituents. Water samples from saline springs, boreholes, hand-dug wells and rivers / streams from the Middle Benue Trough are collected and analysed for cations, anions and heavy metals, using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS); with aim of determining the concentration of the cations and anions in relation to their suitability within the tolerance limit. The analytical results revealed that the major cations such as Copper (Cu), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Iron (Fe) and Magnesium (Mg) have their concentrations within World Health Organization (WHO) drinking water permissible limits. However, Lead (Pb), Arsenic (As), Selenium (Se), Zinc (Zn) and Manganese (Mn) had concentration above the WHO standard and the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) limits. These high values are mostly associated with the Baryte and Lead-Zinc mineralisation associated with either Keana or Awgu formations in the Middle Benue Trough and the saline brine origin of some few aquifers. This situation could potentially have a negative impact on the available water resources in the area with high risk for human consumption, although suitable for agricultural purposes. It is highly recommended that the water quality in this area is monitored from time to time and water borne diseases be systematically and promptly handled.
Highlights
Geographical and Climatic Setting of the Study Area The study area falls within Latitudes 8025’43’’N and 8020’40’’N on its northern and southern boundary, and Longitudes 8048’8’’E and 8055’55’’E on its eastern and western boundaries (Figure 1)
Sampling was jointly performed with staff of the department of Hydrogeology Nigeria Hydrogeological Services Agency (NIHSA)
The importance depends on many parameters, such as the quality for the intended use, which in turn depends on the geological environment, natural movement of fluid, recovery and utilization [13]
Summary
Geographical and Climatic Setting of the Study Area The study area falls within Latitudes 8025’43’’N and 8020’40’’N on its northern and southern boundary, and Longitudes 8048’8’’E and 8055’55’’E on its eastern and western boundaries (Figure 1). Temperatures are generally high partly because of its location in the tropical sub-humid climatic belt. There is gradual increase in temperature from January to March. The onset of rainfall in April ushers in a noticeable decline in temperature. This was made possible by the blanket effect of cloud cover over the region. Relative humidity rises from February to a maximum of about 88% in July. Steady rains commence in April when the relative humidity will reach about 75%. The variation in rainfall has significant effect on the underground water accumulation, yield, recharge and even economic activities rain-fed agriculture. Rainfall occurrences are between April and October yearly while November to March is characterised by dryness. The average rainfall value during rainy season ranges from 1100mm to about 2000mm [1,2]
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