ASSESSMENT OF SOIL HEAVY METAL DISTRIBUTION IN NALAIKH DISTRICT, ULAANBAATAR, MONGOLIA

Abstract

This research aims to assess the distribution and contamination levels of heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in the soil of Nalaikh District, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Soil samples were collected from various locations, including mining sites, residential areas, and along roadsides, and analyzed using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry. The findings indicate that the concentrations of certain heavy metals exceed the natural background levels. The environmental quality was evaluated using the Geo-accumulation Index ($I_{geo}$) and the Contamination Factor (CF). The results suggest that mining activities, coal extraction, and urbanization are the primary contributors to soil contamination in the region. This study provides essential data for environmental monitoring and the development of soil remediation strategies in Nalaikh District