Evaluation of the pH buffer capacity of natural lake waters in western Siberia: Criteria of resistance to acidification

Abstract

A new technique is suggested for evaluating the pH buffer capacity of natural aquatic systems (as exemplified by small lakes in western Siberia) with regard for the pH values of the lake waters and the concentrations of the hydrocarbonate ion and anions of humic acids,. The acid-neutralizing capacity evaluated for small lakes in western Siberia by conventionally used techniques (which was suggested by Norwegian researchers) is compared with evaluations by the technique suggested by the authors. Criteria are suggested for quantifying the immunity of natural waters to acidification in various natural climatic zones in western Siberia.