GeoHint: Hydrochemical Geogenic Background Values of Arsenic

The hydrochemical composition of groundwater results from the geochemical makeup of the aquifer and from anthropogenic input.

To evaluate groundwater quality and to detect possible anthropogenic contamination requires the separation of these two sources of input.

Arsenic: toxic and trace element

After subtraction of the anthropogenic part, the hydrochemical content of groundwater reflects geological background levels. Arsenic occurs mainly in crystalline rocks and can find its way into the groundwater in such areas.