ABSTRACT
The distribution of the heavy metals: Zn, Pb, Cd, As and Tl in sulphide ores, oxidized ores (gossan), and soils in the vicinity of the inactive Bolesław Mine (Upper Silesian Zn-Pb district) is summarized. Of particular importance is the contamination of all soil types in which the permissible values are far exceeded. Heavy metals are interpreted to invade soils due to weathering processes of orebodies and their ore-bearing dolomite host as well as from airborne contamination by particulate matter derived from unprotected open pits, dried parts of tailing pond, and a Zn-Pb smelter.
