Trace Metal and Rare Earth Content of Black Precipitation Events

Abstract

Abstract The authors used the techniques of non destructive neutron activation analysis to determine trace metal and rare earth content of black precipitation events occurring in the Cairngorm Mountains in remote areas of Scotland. Thirty-one elements were determined in the particulate matter of snowpack cores that were sliced into sections. An additional analysis was performed for a black acidic snow event. Based on these results and on wind trajectories, increased loadings of many of the heavy metals and rare earth elements appeared to have originated from central Europe. Enrichment factor calculations showed anthropogenic emissions for indium, arsenic, zinc, and selenium.