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CHEMICAL FLUX IN AN ACID-STRESSED STREAM
Citation:
Hall, R. AND G. Likens. CHEMICAL FLUX IN AN ACID-STRESSED STREAM. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., EPA/600/J-81/660 (NTIS PB84124932).
Description:
The acidity of rain and snow falling on widely separated areas of the world has been increasing during the past 30 yr (refs 1-3). Acid rainfall consists of a dilute solution of sulphuric and nitric acids due to the oxidation and hydrolysis of airborne sulphur and nitrogen and frequently has a pH of <4.0. Recent studies have shown that acid rain alters the chemistry and biology of streams and lakes in large regions of the world. Results from reconnaissance studies in the field and physiological studies in the laboratory show that diversity and numbers of aquatic organisms of all major trophic levels are affected by low pH (high acidity). The quantitative effects of such acidification on biogeochemistry and biological function in natural streams have received little attention. The authors aim was to measure the effects of increased acidity on chemical and biological export in the stream.