A simulation of the enrichment of atmospheric pollutants in snow cover runoff

The soluble impurities contained in a snow cover can be concentrated as much as five fold in the first fractions of snowmelt runoff. In addition, daily impurity surges are possible. Melt‐freeze cycles concentrate the impurities in the lower portion of the snow cover, hence preparing the impurities for rapid removal. Environmental damage can occur due to the concentration and rapid release of atmospheric pollutants from the snow, especially in areas of ‘acid precipitation.’ The enrichment of the soluble impurities is explained and the results of laboratory experiments are given.