371 



The total beta zmd alpha activity of arable soil of the Yakut SSR is 20-25X10*^ 

 Ci/g and 7-lOXlO'^ Ci/g, respectively, and to a great extent depends on the quantity and 

 kind of mineral fertilizer applied. 



Analysis indicates that the total alpha activity of soil is approximately equal to the 

 mean values of alpha activity of arable soils throughout the Yakut SSR, and its increase 

 was not found in any samples, while the total beta activity increases upwardly and 

 reaches its maximum level on the surface of the soil. 



This indicates sofl contamination with sources of beta radiation. 



Taking into account the fact that more than 10 years have passed since the 

 explosion, these can be strontium-90 and cesium- 137, whose half-life is about 30 years. 



T. Lopukhova 



Laboratory Physician of the Radiological 

 Laboratory of the Republic Sanitation 

 and Epidemiology Station 



-21- 



