Chromium cycle

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The chromium cycle describes the movement and chemical transformation of chromium among rocks, soils, water, sediments, the atmosphere, and organisms. Chromium occurs mainly in the trivalent and hexavalent oxidation states.

Chromium(III) is generally less mobile and is a trace nutrient for some organisms, while chromium(VI) is more soluble, mobile, and toxic. Oxidation and reduction reactions therefore strongly control environmental behaviour.

Weathering releases chromium from minerals, and iron and manganese oxides can adsorb or transform it. Microorganisms and organic matter also influence chromium speciation and mobility.

Mining, metal processing, pigments, leather tanning, combustion, and industrial waste can increase environmental chromium. Sedimentation and mineral formation remove it from active cycling, while erosion or changing redox conditions can remobilise it.

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• Source / publisher: Wikipedia
• URL type: WWW
• Credits: Wikipedia
• URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chromium_cycle