The Behaviour of Selenium in Geological Processes

Abstract

Selenium contents were analyzed from a total of 244 soil samples collected over different rock types at a sampling density of one sample per 4 km2 around Geita gold mining areas, Northwestern Tanzania. Comparisons using literature survey contents of selenium in geological materials and some implications on the selenium in soils are compiled and discussed. Most selenium occurs as simple selenides in small quantities in low temperature hydrothermal deposits devoid of sulphur. It has been observed that to a large extent selenium content is increased more than most trace elements in the upper parts of the Earth perhaps through extraterrestrial deposition. In deep-seated rocks selenium is associated with sulphur but being volatile selenium and sulphur do not behave according to the crystallochemical law. Due to the higher stability of S6+, Se4+ and Se0 separate during migration. Thus, selenium is especially found in deep-seated plutonic rocks where large magma bodies cooled slowly and sulphur is available to precipitate sulphides. Selenium, which occurs with sulphides, is inhomogeneously deposited into continental margins. It is increased during magmatic differentiation and is highest in basic rocks. In magmatic and metamorphic conditions, selenium is found in the crystal structures of sulphides while in pneumatolytic and hydrothermal processes, it is relatively enriched into the late differentiates compared to sulphur. In metamorphic rocks selenium is more widely distributed. Selenium content in soils in the investigated area varies from (0.3–0.5 μ gg−1) in laterite and in black cotton soil 0.4 μ gg−1. Of all volcanic rocks selenium is highest in volcanogenic rocks especially the basalts. Surface waters are enriched in selenium, which they leach from volcanic materials. Selenium in sediments containing clay and organic matter is elevated but the content decreases with increased metamorphism. Selenium in volcanic areas can be used as a pathfinder in prospecting for volcanogenic ore deposits. S/Se ratios are distinct in different rock types and can thus be used to elucidate the origin of rocks, ores, and sediments.