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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Reversibility of acidification

Book ·
OSTI ID:6941437

This book reviews the effects on aquatic ecosystems of changes in atmospheric deposition of acidifying components. In particular, the question of whether aquatic ecosystems will recover from acidification once acidifying depositions are reduced is examined. Emphasis is given to modeling of the expected effects of reduced atmospheric sulfur and nitrogen deposition. The important role of ammonium, including gaseous ammonia emissions, as a source of acidification through nitrification was demonstrated in several investigations. Land-use changes as they relate to the effects of changes in deposition are also taken into account, but mitigation by measures such as limiting was excluded. Conclusions are that (1) aquatic ecosystems will recover from acidification once acidifying deposition is reduced; (2) a return to pre-industrial precipitation composition would have benefits in improved water quality within a decade; and (3) land use practices can modify the effects of acidifying deposition. Both theoretical and experimental research results that: aquatic ecosystem will recover from acidification once acidifying deposition is reduced: a return to pre-industrial precipitation composition would have benefits in improved water quality within a decade; land use practices can modify the effects of acidifying deposition; and the important role of ammonium, including gaseous ammonia emissions, as a source of acidification. Separate chapters are processed for the appropriate data bases.

OSTI ID:
6941437
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English