Adsorption of tetracycline onto goethite in the presence of metal cations and humic substances

► Background electrolyte cations showed almost no effect on tetracycline adsorption onto goethite. ► Copper (II) and humic acid enhanced the adsorption to different extent. ► Tetracycline was adsorbed by goethite through inner-sphere complextion. ► Copper (II) and humic acid have great effects on tetracycline mobility in soils.