ABSTRACT
Raw cottons varying in growth area, variety, and harvest season were analyzed for metal content by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Four varieties grown in one season at 3 locations were selected to examine varietal and area of growth differences. Cottons primarily from the 1983 to 1989 crops were selected to study seasonal differences. Cottons from China, Africa, and Pakistan were also tested. The naturally occurring elements, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium, were determined. A few cottons were also analyzed for iron and copper content. Metal contents of domestic cottons were highly related to area of growth. Varietal differences were small and were overshadowed by area and seasonal differences. The potassium, magnesium, calcium, and sodium contents of the foreign cottons were equal to or greater than those of domestic cottons.
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