Determination of Sodium and Potassium in Groundwater (Borewell) Samples of Baglan Region of Maharashtra by Flame Photometry
Ganesh Sonawane*, Kajal Pansare, Chandrashekhar Patil, Sunil Mahajan, Deepak Sonawane, Nikita Khairnar, Mayur Bhamare
Divine College of Pharmacy, Satana Dist: Nashik-423301, India.
*Corresponding Author E-mail: gbsonawane8@gmail.com
ABSTRACT:
Groundwater serves as a vital resource for drinking water and agricultural activities in many regions, including the Baglan area of Maharashtra. It is a primary source of fresh water in areas where surface water is scarce or contaminated. However, the quality of groundwater depends significantly on its chemical composition, which is influenced by natural processes such as rock-water interaction and human activities like agricultural practices and industrial discharge1,2.
Sodium (Na⁺) and potassium (K⁺) are essential ions commonly found in groundwater. Sodium plays a critical role in human health by regulating blood pressure and fluid balance, but excessive intake through water can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues3. Potassium, an essential nutrient for both humans and plants, contributes to proper cellular function and agricultural productivity, but its high concentration in drinking water may cause gastrointestinal discomfort 4,5. Monitoring these ions in groundwater is therefore crucial for ensuring the safety and suitability of water for both drinking and irrigation purposes.
The Baglan region is a predominantly agricultural area, relying heavily on borewell water for irrigation and domestic use. Regular analysis of sodium and potassium levels is essential to address potential health risks and to prevent soil salinity, which could impact crop yield and quality. This study seeks to fill the gap in understanding the concentrations of these critical ions in borewell water samples from the region.
The main objective of this study is to determine the sodium and potassium levels in borewell water samples from the Baglan region of Maharashtra. To evaluate the suitability of groundwater for drinking and agricultural purposes by comparing the measured concentrations with established standards such as those provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)6,7.
LITERATURE REVIEW:
Overview of groundwater composition and its dependence on geological and environmental factors:
Groundwater composition is influenced by a variety of natural and anthropogenic factors. Geologically, the chemical makeup of groundwater depends on the minerals present in the aquifer and the duration of water-rock interaction8. Environmental factors, such as rainfall, temperature, and human activities, including agriculture and industrialization, further affect groundwater quality 9. In regions like Baglan, the interaction between soil and percolating rainwater contributes significantly to the levels of dissolved minerals, including sodium and potassium10. Excessive use of fertilizers and poor water management practices can also lead to elevated concentrations of these ions in groundwater11.
Previous studies on sodium and potassium levels in groundwater: Sodium and potassium are commonly found in groundwater due to the dissolution of natural salts, weathering of silicate minerals, and anthropogenic inputs12. Elevated sodium levels in groundwater have been reported to adversely affect human health, causing conditions like hypertension and cardiovascular diseases13. Potassium, while essential for human and plant health, is typically found in lower concentrations compared to sodium, as it is less soluble in water and tends to be retained by clay minerals in soil14. Studies from Maharashtra and other parts of India have highlighted the variability in sodium and potassium levels due to regional differences in geology, climate, and human activities15,16. These studies underscore the need for localized assessments to ensure water quality and safety for consumption and agricultural use.
Relevance of flame photometry in groundwater analysis: Flame photometry is widely used for the quantitative determination of alkali and alkaline earth metals, including sodium and potassium, in water samples. The technique is based on the principle of measuring the intensity of light emitted when metal ions are excited in a flame17. It is a cost-effective and relatively simple method for analyzing large numbers of samples, making it suitable for field and laboratory settings18. Although the technique is considered less sensitive than advanced methods such as ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry), its reliability and ease of use have made it a standard approach for routine water quality monitoring19. In this study, flame photometry was employed to evaluate sodium and potassium levels in groundwater samples, aligning with its proven effectiveness for such applications.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Study area: The study was conducted in the Baglan region of Maharashtra, located in the Nashik district, which is characterized by a semi-arid climate with average annual rainfall ranging from 700 to 800 mm. Water samples were collected in January 2024, following proper sampling techniques and preservation protocols. The topography consists of plains and gentle hills, with the primary aquifer system being composed of sedimentary rock formations20,21. Agriculture is the dominant economic activity in Baglan, and borewells are extensively used for irrigation and domestic water supply.
Borewell water samples were collected from six key locations: Taharabad, Satana, Nampur, Bramhangaon, Deola, and Nirpur. These locations were selected to provide a representative cross-section of the region’s groundwater, taking into account factors like population density, agricultural intensity, and proximity to potential contamination sources22.
Table 1: Details of borewell water sampling locations in the baglan region
|
Sr. No. |
Sample ID |
Location |
|
1 |
Sample 1 |
Taharabad |
|
2 |
Sample 2 |
Satana |
|
3 |
Sample 3 |
Nampur |
|
4 |
Sample 4 |
Bramhangaon |
|
5 |
Sample 5 |
Deola |
|
6 |
Sample 6 |
Nirpur |
Sample collection: A total of six borewell water Water samples were collected in January 2024, following proper sampling techniques and preservation protocols. The sampling strategy aimed to capture temporal variations in groundwater quality. The selection criteria for borewells included accessibility, consistent usage, and absence of visible contamination.
Samples were collected in clean, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles pre-rinsed with distilled water and sample water. Approximately 1 liter of water was drawn from each borewell after allowing the water to flow for 2–3 minutes to flush out stagnant water in the pipes23. Samples were immediately labelled as per Table 1 and stored at 4°C during transportation to the laboratory to prevent alterations in their chemical composition24.
Analytical technique-Flame photometry:
Flame photometry operates on the principle that alkali and alkaline earth metals emit characteristic wavelengths of light when excited in a flame. The intensity of this emitted light is proportional to the concentration of the metal ions in the sample25. Sodium and potassium ions emit light at wavelengths of 589 nm and 766 nm, respectively26.
The flame photometer was calibrated using standard solutions of sodium and potassium prepared by diluting analytical-grade salts (sodium chloride and potassium chloride) in distilled water. A series of standard solutions with known concentrations (e.g., 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 ppm) were prepared to generate calibration curves for both ions. The flame photometer was adjusted for optimum sensitivity and accuracy, and a blank solution (distilled water) was used to zero the instrument before analysis 27.
Water samples were aspirated into the flame, and the emission intensities were recorded. Each sample was analyzed in triplicate, and the average value was used to determine the concentrations of sodium and potassium using the calibration curves28.
Quality control measures: To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the analysis, several quality control measures were implemented. Calibration standards were freshly prepared for each set of analyses, and blank solutions were analyzed periodically to verify the absence of contamination. Each sample was analyzed three times, and the results were averaged to minimize random errors. The flame photometer was cleaned and checked for proper functioning before each session to prevent instrumental drift or blockages. Additionally, recovery experiments were conducted by spiking samples with known concentrations of sodium and potassium to assess the method’s accuracy, with recovery rates maintained within the acceptable range of 95%–105%29.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:
Sodium and potassium concentrations: The concentrations of sodium and potassium in the borewell water samples collected from six locations—Taharabad, Satana, Nampur, Bramhangaon, Deola, and Nirpur—were analyzed and are presented in Table 2, Table 3, and Figure 1. Sodium concentrations ranged from 7.36 to 9.94 mg/L, indicating a moderate variation across the region, while potassium concentrations were slightly lower, ranging from 5.25 to 7.27 mg/L. To visually compare these concentrations, a column graph (Figure 1) was used, which displayed the variation in emission intensities corresponding to the sodium and potassium levels at each sampling location.
The spatial variation in the concentrations of sodium and potassium suggests localized influences that may be related to the specific environmental and anthropogenic factors at each site. For instance, the higher sodium and potassium concentrations observed in the samples from Nirpur and Nampur could be attributed to intensive agricultural activity in these areas. The use of fertilizers, which are rich in potassium and sodium compounds, is a known source of these ions in groundwater. Fertilizer runoff or leaching into the soil and groundwater can lead to elevated concentrations of these ions, especially in regions where irrigation is heavily practiced.
In contrast, the sodium and potassium concentrations in Deola and Taharabad were relatively moderate. This suggests a more balanced influence from anthropogenic factors or possibly lower fertilizer use in these areas. The moderate levels may also indicate that natural factors, such as soil composition or less intensive agricultural practices, play a more significant role in regulating ion concentrations in these locations. On the other hand, the relatively lower levels of sodium and potassium in Satana and Bramhangaon might reflect reduced anthropogenic influences, suggesting that these areas may not experience the same levels of fertilizer application or intensive agricultural practices. Additionally, geological factors, such as differences in soil composition and natural mineral content, may contribute to variations in the ion concentrations. For example, regions with less permeable soils or different types of rock formations may limit the leaching of these ions into the groundwater.
This spatial variation highlights the complex interaction between human activities, agricultural practices, and the natural environment in influencing the concentration of key ions like sodium and potassium in groundwater.
Table 2: Standard and sample emission intensities of sodium (Na⁺) and potassium (K⁺)
|
Sr. No. |
Concentration |
Emission Intensity (Na⁺) |
Emission Intensity (K⁺) |
|
1 |
2 ppm |
0.44 |
0.38 |
|
2 |
4 ppm |
0.82 |
0.86 |
|
3 |
6 ppm |
1.30 |
1.24 |
|
4 |
8 ppm |
1.74 |
1.62 |
|
5 |
10 ppm |
2.12 |
2.06 |
|
6 |
Sample 1 |
1.58 |
1.22 |
|
7 |
Sample 2 |
1.52 |
1.06 |
|
8 |
Sample 3 |
1.78 |
1.34 |
|
9 |
Sample 4 |
1.48 |
1.12 |
|
10 |
Sample 5 |
1.62 |
1.30 |
|
11 |
Sample 6 |
1.90 |
1.48 |
Figure No 1: Column chart representing sodium and potassium emission intensities for standards and samples
Table No-3: Concentrations of sodium (Na⁺) and potassium (K⁺) in groundwater samples by location
|
Sr. No. |
Sample ID |
Location |
Amount of Na⁺ (mg/L) |
Amount of K⁺ (mg/L) |
|
1 |
Sample 1 |
Taharabad |
7.93 |
5.01 |
|
2 |
Sample 2 |
Satana |
7.56 |
5.25 |
|
3 |
Sample 3 |
Nampur |
8.79 |
6.57 |
|
4 |
Sample 4 |
Bramhangaon |
7.36 |
5.53 |
|
5 |
Sample 5 |
Deola |
8.16 |
6.39 |
|
6 |
Sample 6 |
Nirpur |
9.94 |
7.27 |
Comparison with standards:
The concentrations of sodium and potassium were compared with the standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). As per WHO guidelines for drinking water quality, Sodium levels should ideally not exceed 200 mg/L, and potassium levels should remain below 12 mg/L for taste and health considerations30. While, as per BIS Drinking Water Standards (IS 10500:2012), Sodium has no specified limit but is recommended to remain within 200 mg/L for aesthetic reasons, while potassium is suggested to be under 10 mg/L31.
The sodium and potassium levels in all samples were within the permissible limits for drinking water, though potassium concentrations in some samples (e.g., Nampur and Nirpur) were closer to the upper threshold.
IMPLICATIONS:
Potential health implications of sodium and potassium levels in drinking water:
High sodium levels in drinking water can have significant health implications, particularly for individuals with hypertension or those on sodium-restricted diets, potentially contributing to cardiovascular issues32. Although the sodium concentrations in this study were within safe limits, continuous monitoring is recommended due to the possibility of seasonal or anthropogenic changes that could lead to elevated levels. On the other hand, while potassium is essential for various cellular functions, excessive potassium levels can be dangerous for individuals with kidney disorders, as the body may struggle to excrete the excess, leading to potential health risks33.
Agricultural impacts, including soil salinity and crop health:
From an agricultural perspective, high sodium levels in irrigation water can cause soil salinization, which negatively affects soil structure and reduces crop productivity. In regions like Nampur and Nirpur, where higher sodium levels were detected, salinity management practices may be necessary to mitigate these effects on soil health. Conversely, potassium is a critical nutrient for plant growth, supporting enzyme activation, water uptake, and disease resistance. The potassium concentrations found in the borewell water samples suggest that these waters could be beneficial for agricultural use, especially in soils that are deficient in potassium, promoting better crop health and productivity 34.
CONCLUSION:
The study assessed sodium and potassium concentrations in borewell water samples from six locations in the Baglan region of Maharashtra using flame photometry. The findings revealed variations in the concentrations of these essential ions across the sampled locations. Sodium concentrations ranged from 7.36 to 9.94 mg/L, while potassium concentrations were relatively lower, ranging from 5.25 to 7.27 mg/L. These concentrations were within the permissible limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for drinking water. However, localized variations, particularly in Nampur and Nirpur, where higher concentrations were recorded, suggest potential anthropogenic influences or geological factors that require attention. Based on the results, it is recommended to implement regular monitoring of groundwater quality in the region to detect and address any emerging trends that may compromise its suitability for drinking and irrigation. Efforts should also be made to raise awareness among local communities about responsible agricultural practices, as excessive use of fertilizers could contribute to elevated ion concentrations. Additionally, strategies such as promoting rainwater harvesting and improving water filtration techniques can help maintain water quality.
FUTURE SCOPE:
Future research should focus on analyzing seasonal variations in sodium and potassium levels to understand the long-term dynamics of groundwater composition. Expanding the scope to include other critical ions, such as calcium and magnesium, and conducting health risk assessments can provide a more comprehensive understanding of groundwater quality. Advanced techniques, such as ion chromatography, could also be utilized for greater accuracy and to complement flame photometry results. These steps are vital for ensuring sustainable groundwater management in the Baglan region.
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Received on 12.10.2024 Revised on 30.10.2024 Accepted on 17.11.2024 Published on 25.11.2024 Available online from December 27, 2024 Asian J. Research Chem.2024; 17(6):363-367. DOI: 10.52711/0974-4150.2024.00061 ©AandV Publications All Right Reserved
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