Changes In Element Content Of Birch Leaves (Betula Pendula Roth) In Polluted Air

The content of elements in leaves of birch (Betula pendula Roth) growing in the anthropogenicly contaminated conditions surrounding the towns of Olkusz and Niepolomice was determined in 1995, 1998, 2001, 2004, and 2007. Based on the dynamics of changes, the content of sulphur decreased. Contents of phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium fluctuated. Contents of nitrogen, potassium, and copper were insufficient, and that of manganese and zinc optimized to be increased. The content of lead and cadmium was excessive, and the content of aluminium was at the background level.