First published in 1987, this book examines the numerous interacting
physical, chemical and biological processes which regulate the acidity
of freshwaters. Natural acidification processes are considered first,
the the effects of acidifying pollutant inputs from the atmosphere and
of other human activities. The relative importance of the different
processes is critically examined. Concepts incorporated are drawn from
chemistry, physics, geology, hydrology, plant science and forestry, soil
science, microbiology and meteorology. The authors have attempted to
thread the relevant information together to make a coherent story which
should be understandable and useful to readers from a number of
disciplines: undergraduates and postgraduates studying environmental
science, ecology, water quality and hydrogeochemistry; politicians and
managers concerned with pollution control. Indeed, most of the text
should be understandable to well-informed non-scientists who want (or
need) a better grasp of this fascinating and important topic.