ISSN:
1573-0662
Keywords:
Savannah atmosphere
;
vegetation burning
;
soluble particles
;
particles size distributions
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Chemistry and Pharmacology
,
Geosciences
Notes:
Abstract The results presented are the first complete analysis of inorganic soluble ions in a tropical savannah region. Atmospheric particles were collected in six rural Venezuelan savannah sites. Concentrations and size distribution of NO3 −, SO4 2-, CI−, PO4 3-, NH4 +, Na+, K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ were determined in samples collected with Hi Vol samplers equipped with five-stage cascade impactors. Concentrations were higher in the dry season, with a maximum during the burning periods. Using Na+ as a reference, the results show a deficit of Cl− and, with the exception of Mg2+, an enrichment of all other ions with respect to marine aerosols. Significant variations were observed in particle-size distribution between different periods. Various pairs of ions present similar size distributions: SO4 2- and NH4 +; Cl− and Na+; PO4 3- and K+; Ca2+, Mg2+ and NO3 −; indicating that the ions were produced by the same source and/or were involved in similar atmospheric processes. Possible primary sources, the gas-to-particle atmospheric process, environmental implication of long-range transport of nutrients during dry seasons, etc., are discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00058711
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