ABSTRACT

Gallium, a metal of the group 13 in the periodic table of elements, reveals chalcophillic properties and resembles the geochemistry of aluminum. Its content on the Earth’s crust is within the range 1–25 mg/kg. Rocks contain Gallium from 1 to 25 mg/kg; its lowest amounts are in ultramafic and calcareous rocks. Gallium and ferric salts behave similarly in biological systems, and therefore it is used to mimic iron ions in medical applications. Productions of gallium-containing pharmaceuticals and radiopharmaceuticals have been developed. Gallium is emitted mainly from Al industries and during coal combustion. Its higher concentrations are noticed in some sludge and composts. Gallium is an element of increasing biological interest: it is involved in problems related to environmental pollution and to clinical treatments. Gallium is effective in suppressing bone resorption and, when present, concomitant elevated plasma calcium.