Abstract: A method for the determination of total arsenic in soil by hydride gen-eration-inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy is described, The sensitivity of this method is greater than those of normal direct solution ne-bulization. The method is free from interferences by matrix elements at levels normally found in soil samples. The hydride generator used in this me-thod has simpler structure and it is easier to use.Also, this paper discussed the effects of the elements upon the strength of spectrum lines, and determined the best trade-off working conditions of instrument. The recovery of arsenic is 98%-105%. The method of determination is both simple and fast speed.The precision of measurement is better and results are satisfactory.