A reconnaissance survey of the distribution of some trace elements in Indian bauxite

The results of spectrographic analysis of 500 bauxite samples from 25 deposits show that the distribution of Cr, V, Zr and Ga is completely randomised in accordance with the model of complex, polycyclic sequence of bauxite genesis, deduced by other workers on the basis of mineralogical and major element studies. The same process of residual weathering, which generates a systematic enrichment and fractionation of major insoluble elements causes a random dispersion, notwithstanding the overall enrichment, of the insoluble trace elements due to seasonal variations in pH and in direction of movement of the pore water.