## 3 Results and Discussion  
### Trace Elements Concentrations  
The TE identified in the present study area are Ba, Br, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ga, Mn, Nb, Ni, Pb, Sn, Ti, V, Y, Zn, and Zr. The soil samples from our study area showed a broad range of average concentrations of these TE. Table 4 presents these different concentrations, comparing them with the world average and maximum permissible values in the soil. They are ranked in ascending order as follows: Fe \(>\) Ti \(>\)Zr \(>\) Mn \(>\) Cr \(>\) V \(>\) Ba \(>\) Zn \(>\) Nb \(>\) Ni \(>\) Pb \(>\) Ga\(>\) Cu \(>\) Co \(>\) Y \(>\) Br \(>\)Sn. Although TE is necessary for human health, and can also have harmful effects when present in inappropriate concentrations. Optimal concentrations of TE vary from one individual to another and can be influenced by factors such as age, sex, health status, and lifestyle. The results presented in Table 4 summarize the concentrations of various elements analyzed in the samples. Among the essential elements identified, iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) show significant concentrations. Iron concentrations, particularly concerning, range from 6500 to 84,700 ppm, with an average of 42,006 ppm, exceeding the global average of 35,000 ppm. Copper concentrations vary between 1 and 68 ppm, and zinc between 33 and 148 ppm, with averages of 22 ppm and 62 ppm, respectively. The analysis of the essential elements indicates that metals like iron, copper, and zinc, though necessary for human health, are present in soil at concentrations above recommended levels. This raises concerns about potential toxicity from prolonged exposure. For instance, excess iron is linked to liver diseases and metabolic disorders, while copper excess can lead to neurological and psychological issues [42]. As for non-essential elements, lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr) present specific risks due to their toxic effects. Nickel concentrations range from 21 to 84 ppm, exceeding WHO recommended limits [43], and lead ranges from 15 to 111 ppm, which is especially concerning for its neurotoxic effects. Lead is known to affect children's cognitive development and cause neurological disorders [43; 44]. Chronic nickel accumulation in the body can result in health issues like pulmonary fibrosis, kidney and cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory cancers [45; 46], as well as an increased risk of nasal and oral cancer in workers [47; 48]. Chromium levels between 11 and 22 ppm are associated with increased cancer risks and respiratory issues for exposed workers [49; 50; 51]. Trace elements like gallium (Ga), titanium (Ti), vanadium (V), manganese (Mn), and barium (Ba) also show notable concentrations. Titanium concentrations, varying from 8900 to 19,300 ppm, are four times the global average, raising concerns about long-term respiratory health risks [52; 53; 54]. Inhalation of fine particles of this mineral is linked to pleural diseases [52; 53]. Vanadium, with levels between 12 and 142 ppm, and manganese, varying from 57.5 to 696 ppm, are both required in small amounts but can become toxic at high concentrations. Although barium is generally considered less concerning, prolonged exposure can also lead to adverse effects. Finally, non-trace elements such as zirconium (Zr), niobium (Nb), Tin (Sn), and bromine (Br) were also analyzed. Zirconium concentrations range from 411 to 1080 ppm, niobium from 33 to 98 ppm, strontium from 3 to 8 ppm, and bromine from 2 to 13 ppm. All these values exceed the global average. Although often considered non-essential, these elements can pose health and environmental risks when present at elevated levels. Research indicates that exposure to these substances can have adverse effects on human health, particularly in the context of intensive mining activities.