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The quality of atmospheric deposition in Wales

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Abstract

Results are reported of a year-long survey into bulk deposition quality in Wales, UK. Mean pH at the 44 sites varied from 4.4 to 5.0, and the mode of these values was 4.7. At each of the sites, pH values of < 4.0 were recorded. The areas receiving the highest mean concentrations of anthropogenically-derived anions did not have the lowest mean pH, due to the neutralizing effects of calcium and ammonium ions. Deposition was highly episodic: 30% of the annual deposited acidity fell on <5% of wet days, and 10% fell during a three-day period. Spatial variations in ionic concentrations are discussed in relation to possible sources of pollution, and the importance of easterly winds in relation to acidic deposition is emphasized.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. S.W. District Laboratory, Welsh Water Authority, Penyfai House, SA15 4EL, Llanelli, Dyfed

    A. P. Donald

  2. Welsh Water Authority, Head Office, Cambrian Way, LD3 7HP, Brecon, Powys, UK

    J. H. Stoner

Authors
  1. A. P. Donald
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  2. J. H. Stoner
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Donald, A.P., Stoner, J.H. The quality of atmospheric deposition in Wales. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 18, 109–119 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01056195

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01056195

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