Trends in cation, nitrogen, sulfate and hydrogen ion concentrations in precipitation in the United States and Europe from 1978 to 2010: a new look at an old problem

Abstract

Industrial emissions of SO₂ and NO_x, resulting in the formation and deposition of sulfuric and nitric acids, affect the health of both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Since the mid-late 20th century, legislation to control acid rain precursors in both Europe and the US has led to significant declines in both SO₄–S and H ⁺ in precipitation and streams. However, several authors noted that declines in streamwater SO₄–S did not result in stoichiometric reductions in stream H ⁺, and suggested that observed reductions in base cation inputs in precipitation could lessen the effect of air pollution control on improving stream pH.

Citation

Lajtha, K.; Jones, J.A. 2013. Trends in cation, nitrogen, sulfate and hydrogen ion concentrations in precipitation in the United States and Europe from 1978 to 2010: a new look at an old problem. Biogeochemistry. doi:10.1007/s10533-013-9860-2: 32 p.