Chromium
formula: Cr; CAS Registry Number: 7440-47-3
Naturally occurring transition metal
Chromium is a ubiquitous chemical element, which mostly occurs as chromite ore (FeCr2O4) in nature. In metal working industries chromium is used in alloys and as surface coatings against corrosion. Other applications include catalysts, pigments, oxidants, tanning, and wood preservation. It enters the environment mainly through anthropogenic activities. Natural emission sources include volcanic action, weathering and biological processes. Chromium is found in the atmosphere, in soils, waters, plants and animals. It is essential for humans. Some chromium compounds, however, are
- highly toxic to humans
- carcinogenic
- mutagenic
- toxic to aquatic and terrestrial organisms in acute tests
- highly toxic to aquatic organisms in chronic and prolonged tests
- bioaccumulative, i.e. some organisms are capable to accumulate chromium
Recommended analysis examples
Search data
Specimen
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Fine insoluble mineral or organic particles in the water phase
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Common brown alga of the coastal areas of the North and Baltic Sea
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A major primary producer in semi-natural and anthropogenic affected ecosystems.
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A major primary producer in semi-natural and anthropogenic affected ecosystems.
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A deciduous tree typical of ecosystems close to dense conurbations and an indicator for the characterisation of the immission situation during the vegetation period.
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As the most dominant deciduous tree species in Central Europe, it plays a significant role in most nearly natural and also anthropogenically influenced forest ecosystems up to an altitude of 1100 m.
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Soil is livelihood and biosphere for humans, animals, plants and soil organisms. All the substances brought in are transported, transformed and/or accumulated in the soil.
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Student groups with an even number of female and male students at the age of 20 to 29.
Sampling area
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The only high mountains national park in Germany and an area of the Limestone Alps with international relevance
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Important, old-industrialised conurbation in Germany.
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Main water divide between the North- and Baltic Sea
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Longest river in Germany
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Germany's first national park
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National Park in the largest brackish water (Bodden) habitat of the world.
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National park in the world largest connected sand and mud flats.
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Fourth largest river basin in Central Europe
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Region in the chemical triangle of Central Germany
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Germany's largest forest national park
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Second highest and largest low mountain range in Northern Germany
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Germany's largest connected forest area in a range of low mountains
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The Upper Bavarian Tertiary Uplands are a part of the Southern German Molasse Basin
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Second largest river in Europe
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4 university cities as sampling areas.
Sampling period
1985 - 2023