On density of precipitation chemistry networks

Using Scandinavian precipitation chemistry data the dependence of the accuracy of the interpolation and areal averaging of SO _inf4 ^sup2- , NO _inf3 ^sup- , NH _inf4 ^sup+ , and Ca²⁺ contents of precipitation water on the density of the network and on the size of the area considered is studied. On the basis of the results obtained the density of networks operating with a given accuracy can be determined as a function of the area. As an example the density of the networks determining the annual and monthly areal SO_f4/^p2- deposition as well as the point values of the monthly SO_f4/^p2- concentration with an accuracy of 10%, 25%, and 30%, respectively, is calculated. The accuracy provided by such networks for other components in precipitation water is also studied.