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Chemical composition of acid precipitation in Central Texas

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Abstract

Studies were undertaken to determine factors affecting composition of acidic precipitation formation in the Austin area of Central Texas. The study was initiated to determine background levels of acid and alkalinity producing constitutents in an area with elevated natural dust levels from nearby limestone rock formations. Results showed normal rainfall pH values of 6.5 to 6.6 in the area, with extreme variations from 5.8 to 7.3. Significant Ca levels of 1 to 4 mg 1−1 were observed from probably natural origin which appeared to have a buffering effect on acidity. Significant sulfate and nitrate ion concentrations occurred during the early stages of rainfall where rainfall pH was dependent on calcium-sulfate ratio.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Civil Engineering, Environmental Health Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, 78712, U.S.A.

    Hal B. H. Cooper Jr. & Jose A. Lopez

  2. Texas Air Control Board, 8520 Shoal Creek Blvd., 78758, Austin, Texas, U.S.A.

    Jerry M. Demo

Authors
  1. Hal B. H. Cooper Jr.
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  2. Jose A. Lopez
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  3. Jerry M. Demo
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Cooper, H.B.H., Lopez, J.A. & Demo, J.M. Chemical composition of acid precipitation in Central Texas. Water, Air, and Soil Pollution 6, 351–359 (1976). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00182876

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00182876

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