Hydrochemical peculiarities of atmospheric precipitates and snow cover in Minsk

   The study presents the results of monitoring the chemical composition of atmospheric precipitation and snow cover at the experimental site of the Institute for Nature Management of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus in Minsk in 2023. The volume-weighted mean concentrations in precipitation were 0.42 mg S/L for sulfur, 0.31 mg N/L for oxidized nitrogen, and 0.45 mg N/L for reduced nitrogen. In the snow cover during the winter period of 2022–2023, the corresponding values were 0.31, 0.35, and 0.22 mg/L. Atmospheric precipitation was characterized by predominantly neutral conditions (mean pH of 6.12) and reduced mineralization compared to previous years. A synchronous intra-annual variation of sulfur and nitrogen compounds was identified, indicating common emission sources. The influence of meteorological conditions on concentration variability was demonstrated, along with the significant role of local anthropogenic factors in shaping the chemical composition of snow cover. Comparison with data from EMEP monitoring stations showed that the concentrations of major components fall within the range observed in neighboring countries. A long-term decreasing trend in sulfur and nitrogen content was confirmed, despite interannual variability.

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