The Arsenic Biogeochemical Cycle: A Review

Abstract

This paper reviews the arsenic in the environment. Arsenic contamination is currently one of the leading environmental problems worldwide. The arsenic (As) cycle is the subject of this article because As is an element with a significant impact on living beings and because of its interrelation with other biogeochemical cycles. The biogeochemical cycle of As is closed, so this trace element returns to sediments where it can be changed in its chemical state by micro-organisms present in soils. In addition, some minerals contribute to the sequestration and retention of As. This element interferes with other critical biogeochemical cycles such as sulfur, phosphorus, iron, manganese, and antimony. Another factor to consider is determining the content and interference of organic matter in the soil, as it forms very stable compounds with As. On the other hand, in aquatic environmental conditions, with a high concentration of organic matter and anaerobiosis, a reducing environment is created that facilitates the mobilization of As in the sediments.