Determination of Heavy Metals in Core Sediment from Sungai Kelantan as a Indicator for River Pollution.

River pollution has been one of the most occurring phenomenal in Malaysia due to anthropogenic activities such as dumping, logging and industrial activities. In this study, the physical properties of the core sediments samples from 3 sampling points in Sungai Kelantan (known as KK3, KK4 and KK1 1) were analysed. The heavy metals concentration in the core sediment samples were examined through Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy and the concentration of heavy metals present were compared with WHO permissible limit. The pollution levels in Sungai Kelantan evaluated using geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and correlation between properties of core sediments, water quality and the presence of heavy metals. By examining the sample of core sediments in Sungai Kelantan, the severity and causes of pollution indicated. The properties of core sediments which are Total Organic Carbon, Grain Size Distribution and Moisture Content of KK3, KK4 and KK1 1 were affected by environmental conditions and surrounding of the study area. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy determined the heavy metal concentration of Aluminium, Iron, Lead, Chromium, Zinc and Copper only By comparing the average value of each metal concentration, it is found that only lead concentration exceed the WHO permissible limit in the mentioned sampling points. The pollution level were indicated through geoaccumulation index and categorized as class 1 with the range value of 0 < Igeo < 1. Thus, we can conclude that Sungai Kelantan in study area of KK3, KK4 and KK1 1 are uncontaminated to moderately contaminated. The correlation between properties of core sediments, water quality and the presence of heavy metals were studied and it shows that each parameter or variable affect the other where the organic matter present in the sample may influence the biological oxygen demand in the tested water samples. Thus, authorised body should take pragmatic and effective ways to manage the pollution to preserve the environment.