Factors influencing bulk precipitation chemistry at an upland site in mid‐Wales

Abstract

Abstract Bulk precipitation at an upland grassland catchment was monitored over a two year period using a continuously open collector. The data were analysed to establish the relative contributions from marine and non‐marine sources and the influence of wind direction and speed on precipitation chemistry. The precipitation is dilute, acidic and dominated by sea derived solutes. The relative contribution of marine‐derived solutes is related to weather conditions dominated by autumnal storms from the west and southwest, whereas periods of calm weather in spring with light easterly winds is an important control on the chemistry of non‐marine ions. An estimate of the rate of bulk deposition of solutes at the site is given, and the possible errors relating to the interpretation of this estimate for a catchment system are discussed.