Toxic and essential elements in agricultural soil and wheat

The research was conducted with the aim of examining the presence of toxic elements (Pb, Cd, As and Hg) and essential elements (Zn, Cu, Fe i Mn) ions in selected agricultural soil and wheat samples by ICP mass spectrometry. An overall toxic element index was calculated by taking into account each element assay, which contributed with the same weight into final result. Correlation between toxic microelements contents in soil and wheat was monitored. Correlation analysis, ANOVA and F-test were applied for statistical evaluation of obtained results. The calculated mean and median levels of contamination were compared with the recommended or regulated maximum levels according to the European Commission and the national legislation.