Distribution of lead and copper in the Ganawuri granite complex of Jos Plateau

The significance of any trace element in an environment largely depends on the abundance of such element in the bedrock as well as its mobility/solubility in an aqueous solution. On the basis of these parameters, the trace elements lead (Pb) and copper (Cu) in the various rock units of the Ganawuri Granite Complex of Joss Plateau have been studied and their environmental significance evaluated.

The results of the study indicate that their levels of concentration are higher than their crustal abundance (i.e. Pb - 30 - 65; Cu = 10 – 50 ppm) and can, therefore, be considered hazardous and of environmental significance. The element copper with high mobility can be very hazardous in drinking water, plants etc. lead of this concentration can be very hazardous in drinking water in the presence of CO₂.