Elemental Variability in Stems of Pinus sylvestris L.: Whether a Single Core Can Represent All the Stem

In dendrochemical studies, an analysis of wooden cores extracted from tree stems is a widely spread research method. A methodological problem related to the method: whether single core per can be representative all stems. The study aimed estimate how elemental contents are variable in rings and correlate among different cores. were Pinus sylvestris L., four tree, according cardinal directions (east, west, north, south). (Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Sr) estimated through X-ray fluorescent facility Itrax Multiscanner (COX Analytical Systems). agreement between temporal series was Spearman’s correlation coefficients. It has been found that intra-tree for almost studied elements do not with each other. exclusions Ca K which show strong consistent correlations. source correlations is, however, long-term trends pith bark. detrending reveals some high-frequency trees. At least Scots pine, unlikely reliable whole stem respect content. few overcome uncertainty discussed.