Asian Journal of Physical and Chemical Sciences

Computation of Zagreb Vector Index and Total Eccentricity in the Physical Properties of Linear Alkanes

Narendra V H — 2026-01-07

The structural complexity of organic molecules strongly influences their physicochemical properties. This study investigates the relationship between two graph-theoretical descriptors, the Zagreb Vector Index and Total Eccentricity, and selected physical properties of linear alkanes. Molecular graphs are used to compute these indices, which capture structural information based on vertex degrees and graph distances. Regression analysis performed in the R programming environment demonstrates the effectiveness of these topological indices as predictive tools for estimating alkane properties, highlighting their relevance in mathematical chemistry and molecular property prediction.

Assessment of Some Heavy Metals Level in Farmland along OPM- Aluu Dumpsite in Ikwerre LGA, Rivers State, Nigeria

Onwuka Maduabuchi — 2026-01-09

The assessment of some heavy metal levels in farmland along OPM –ALUU dumpsite near Port-Harcourt was carried out using soil auger and an Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The samples collected from site Allu 1 and Aluu 2 representing farmland near the dumpsite and control soil, respectively. The results obtained showed lead (Pb) 97.5mg/kg, Arsenic (As) 29.5mg/kg, cadmium (Cd) 0.82mg/kg, Copper (Cu) 37.2mg/kg, Zinc (Zu) 64.8mg/kg, Chromium (Cr) 108.5mg/kg, Manganese (Mn) 58.3mg/kg and Nickel (Ni) 31.0mg/kg. These results are all higher than the world Health organization (WHO) limits, apart from Nickel (Ni) that is lower than the limit. Similarly, all the results were found to be higher above the control soil, apart from cadmium (Cd) and Nickel (Ni), which were not detected. Base on these results, we conclude that the site is polluted with heavy metals, and should be abandoned for farming activities. Similarly, people already farming in this area should be discouraged and made to go for routine medical exercise to ascertain the level of heavy metals in their body system. Finally, further studies using other analytical equipment, such as chromatographic techniques, should be used apart from Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer, to authenticate our report.

Assessment of Groundwater Quality and Potential Non-carcinogenic Health Risk Around Epie Creek, Yenagoa, Nigeria

John Ebikienmo P. — 2026-01-14

Groundwater is the primary source of domestic water supply in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, yet increasing urbanisation and poor sanitation practices raise concerns about its quality and potential health implications, particularly around surface water bodies such as Epie Creek. This study assessed groundwater quality and evaluated non-carcinogenic human health risks associated with borehole water consumption around Epie Creek, Yenagoa. Groundwater samples were collected from 15 boreholes distributed across creek-side, residential, and peri-urban zones using a triplicate sampling design. In situ parameters, including temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and turbidity, were measured using calibrated portable meters. Major ions were analysed using titrimetric and flame photometric methods, while heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, and Zn) were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry after acid digestion. Non-carcinogenic health risks were assessed for adults and children using estimated daily intake, hazard quotient, and hazard index models. Groundwater was slightly acidic, with pH values ranging from 5.2 to 6.8. Electrical conductivity varied between 148 and 612 µS/cm, and turbidity reached up to 12.4 NTU in some boreholes. Iron concentrations ranged from 0.18 to 1.24 mg/L, exceeding recommended limits in most samples. Lead (0.002–0.031 mg/L) and cadmium (<0.001–0.006 mg/L) exceeded guideline values in several locations, particularly near Epie Creek. Hazard quotient values for children reached 0.91 for lead and 0.70 for cadmium, while the cumulative hazard index exceeded unity for children (HI = 2.82), indicating potential non-carcinogenic health risk. Groundwater around Epie Creek shows signs of metal contamination and potential non-carcinogenic health risks, especially for children. Continuous monitoring, improved sanitation, and appropriate household water treatment are necessary to safeguard public health.

A Comprehensive Study on the Chemical Composition of Essential Oil from Commiphora Myrrha Resin via Steam Distillation Method

Abdullahi Yusuf Mohamed — 2026-01-14

The essential oil of commiphora myrrha resin, commonly referred to as myrrha, has been utilized for centuries in a variety of traditional medicinal and fragrant applications. Myrrha has been an essential component in cultural practices, from religious ceremonies to therapeutic treatments for conditions such as inflammation, pain, and infections. this study investigates the chemical composition of steam-distilled essential oil derived from commiphora myrrha resin sourced from Somalia, the essential oil was extracted using steam distillation method, which is widely regarded for preserving the aromatic and therapeutic qualities of plant material. The chemical profile of the essential oil was analyzed using GC-MS, a highly effective technique for identifying and quantifying volatile compounds, the analysis revealed a complex composition dominated by terpenes and sesquiterpenes, with (alpha)α-pinene (24.54%), L-terpinen-4-ol (13.21%), and beta-ocimene (11.80%) identified as the major constituents. These compounds are known for their various bioactive properties, such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, which contribute to the medicinal potential of the oil, in addition to the chemical composition, the physical properties of the essential oil were assessed. the steam distillation process resulted in a golden -yellow oil, which is typical for C. myrrha essential oil, the density and refractive index of the oil were found to be 0.8791 g per cm³and 1.481-1.485, respectively, as measured using a pycnometer and refractometer, these physical characteristics are important for determining the quality and purity of the oil, as well as its suitability for various industrial applications, including cosmetics and aromatherapy. overall, the results of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of the chemical and physical properties of commiphora myrrha essential oil, contributing to its potential for a wide range of applications in natural medicine and wellness.

Spatial Assessment of Physicochemical and Microbiological Water Quality in Laligan River, Valencia City, Bukidnon, Philippines

Louize Gabriel C. Reyes — 2026-01-05

Rivers are one of the most vital freshwater resources on Earth, but human activities often cause degradation, emphasizing the need for water quality monitoring. To capture maximum environmental variability, water samples were collected from three strategically mapped sites along the Laligan River using standardized preservation and transport protocols. The analysis was compared against the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Class C water standards. Physicochemical results were mixed. Parameters like Total Dissolved Solids (188.41 mg/L), Turbidity (0.78 NTU), pH (7.76), and Total Alkalinity (98.11 mg/L) were compliant. However, two parameters exceeded the limit: Nitrate (8.81 mg/L average, limit 7 mg/L) and the toxic heavy metal Cadmium (0.006 mg/L average, limit 0.005 mg/L), with both peaking midstream. Most critically, the average Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was 4.48 mg/L, falling below the 5.0 mg/L minimum standard, decrease sharply midstream and downstream due to likely organic pollution. The microbiological quality showed severe contamination. Fecal Coliforms (FC) were already non-compliant upstream at 4,000 MPN/100 mL (limit 400 MPN/100 mL). This concentration dramatically escalated to 17,000 MPN/100 mL midstream and downstream, exceeding the standard by over 42 times and indicating a massive influx of domestic or animal waste. Total Coliforms (TC) mirrored this trend, soaring from a compliant 3,000 MPN/100 mL upstream to 15,000 MPN/100 mL mid- and downstream. While basic parameters are stable, the combination of low DO, elevated Nitrate and Cadmium, and overwhelmingly high Fecal Coliform counts renders the river unsuitable for Class C uses and poses a grave public health risk.