Estimating catchment water quality response to acid deposition using mathematical models of soil ion exchange processes

Abstract We have developed a mechanistic, process-oriented model of the effects of acidic deposition on the chemistry of waters delivered from terrestrial systems to associated streams. The model is based on quantitative representations of soil processes that are considered to be important in determining surface water quality in small forested catchments in temperate, humid climates; anion retention (e.g. sulfate adsorption), cation exchange, alkalinity generation by carbonic acid dissociation, dissolution of aluminium minerals and mineral weathering. The implications of point models of soil ion exchange processes on catchment dynamics are explored by applying the model to an intensively studied catchment in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (U.S.A.). The sensitivity of the results to the assumed mathematical representations of soil processes is investigated.

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