Lead detection in living plant tissue using a new histochemical method
A quick, simple method for identifying and distinguishing lead from other heavy metals in living plants has been developed using sodium rhodizonate (C/sub 6/O/sub 6/Na/sub 2/) which forms a scarlet precipitate with lead at approximately pH 2.8. Hand sections of plant tissues are treated with rhodizonate reagent, buffered, and examined microscopically. Very little time and/or effect is required for this method. Those cells and tissues contaminated with lead turn scarlet - color intensity being directly related to concentration. Lead may be detected in quite low concentrations and, most importantly, may be observed in situ; its entry and movement through the plant can thus be followed. In an area of moderate traffic of Downey, California (Southeast Los Angeles), lead was found abundantly on leaves as well as on and in roots of garden-grown lettuce; origin of this lead is presumed to be from car exhausts.
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of California, Los Angeles
- OSTI ID:
- 5011186
- Journal Information:
- J. Air Pollut. Control Assoc.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Air Pollut. Control Assoc.; (United States) Vol. 22:6; ISSN JPCAA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
BIOLOGICAL ACCUMULATION
BODY
DETECTION
ELEMENTS
FOOD
IN VIVO
LEAD
LEAVES
LETTUCE
METALS
PLANT STEMS
PLANT TISSUES
PLANTS
STAINS
TISSUES
VEGETABLES