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Related Experiment Videos

Organic nitrogen in precipitation: real problem or sampling artefact?

J N Cape1, A Kirika, A P Rowland

  • 1Centre for Ecology and Hydrology Edinburgh, Bush Estate, Penicuik, Midlothian, UK.

Thescientificworldjournal
|June 14, 2003
PubMed
Summary

Organic nitrogen (N) in precipitation is a significant component, contributing approximately 20% to total N. Current estimates of wet nitrogen deposition in the U.K. are underestimated due to excluding this crucial organic N.

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Area of Science:

  • Environmental Chemistry
  • Atmospheric Science
  • Ecology

Background:

  • Published observations of organic nitrogen (N) in precipitation span nearly a century.
  • Varied measurement methods have led to uncertainty regarding the accuracy of reported organic N concentrations.
  • Previous studies lacked standardized protocols for sampling and analysis, potentially introducing artifacts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the reliability of organic N measurements in precipitation.
  • To quantify the contribution of organic N to total N deposition in the U.K.
  • To assess the impact of sampling and storage methods on organic N analysis.

Main Methods:

  • A network of seven precipitation collectors was established across the U.K., employing a standardized protocol.

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  • Collectors were constructed from different materials (polypropylene, steel, glass) to test material effects.
  • A biocide was used during sampling and storage to prevent microbial degradation of samples.
  • Samples were analyzed centrally using validated chemical methods.

    • Main Results:

    • Collector material (polypropylene, steel, glass) did not significantly affect dissolved organic N (DON) composition.
    • The use of a biocide was crucial for accurate sampling and storage.
    • Organic N constituted approximately 20% of total N in U.K. precipitation over a 6-month period.
    • Significant spatial variation in organic N concentrations was observed across the U.K.

    Conclusions:

    • Organic N in precipitation is a real and significant component, not an analytical artifact.
    • Current estimates of wet nitrogen deposition in the U.K. are likely underestimated.
    • Standardized protocols, including the use of biocides, are essential for accurate organic N measurements.