Theses and Dissertations - UTB/UTPA

Date of Award

12-2010

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Chemistry

First Advisor

Dr. Elamin E. Ibrahim

Second Advisor

Dr. Kenneth R. Summy

Third Advisor

Dr. Jason Parsons

Abstract

Studies were conducted to investigate the use of spectral reflectance by foliage of common sunflower as a potential indicator of arsenic contamination of soil. Germination method was developed for sunflower seeds, and cohorts of sunflower seedlings in hydroponic tanks were established. The cohorts were exposed to 0 ppm, 5 ppm, 7.5 ppm, and 10 ppm treatments of As (V) and reflectance measurements of foliage were collected using a spectroradiometer during two experiments.Results demonstrated the feasibility of using spectral reflectance by foliage of common sunflower as a potential indicator of arsenic contamination. In both experiments, arsenic concentrations in leaf tissues were directly proportional to arsenic concentrations in hydroponic solutions in which such plants were grown. Although the effect(s) of arsenic accumulation had minimal impact on reflectance of visible wavelengths, the effects on NIR reflectance were substantial and resulted in a progressive decrease in reflectance as arsenic concentrations in foliage increased.

Comments

Copyright 2010 Yuridia Patricia Peralta de Gandy. All Rights Reserved.

https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/spectral-reflectance-as-indicator-foliar/docview/853095048/se-2?accountid=7119

Granting Institution

University of Texas-Pan American

Included in

Chemistry Commons

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