In situ multielement analysis by α‐particle induced x‐ray fluorescence in saline‐treated bush bean

Abstract The effect of NaCl salinities of 1 atm. and less on elemental relationships in bean leaves was determined in situ by α‐induced x‐ray fluorescence. The method was excellent for detecting light Z elements ranging from 10 to 22. The results showed that Mg and P levels were good indicators of 0.5 atm NaCl salinity, whereas Cl concentration was a good indicator of at least 1.0 atm NaCl salinity. Mg and P levels decreased, whereas Cl level increased with increasing salinities. S,K, and Ca levels were not affected by low salinities. Leaves from both control and test plants were characterized by positive P‐Ca and K‐Ca correlations. In addition, negative P‐Cl and S‐Ca correlations were associated with salinity treatment.