Dataset of Chemical Element Concentrations in Snow Samples Collected in Jelgava City (Latvia), 2024
Description
This dataset contains concentrations of 14 chemical elements — Al, Si, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Mo, Cd, Ba, W, and Pb — measured in snow samples collected in Jelgava, Latvia, in January 2024. The dataset was developed to assess atmospheric deposition and provide insights into urban air pollution. Snow samples were collected at 59 monitoring points across Jelgava city and one rural reference site. Three replicate samples were collected at each site, resulting in 180 samples in total. Element concentrations were determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (Agilent 8900 ICP-QQQ) and are reported in µg/L. The dataset enables assessment of spatial patterns of chemical element deposition, comparison of urban and background conditions, and identification of potential anthropogenic pollution sources. It can also support environmental monitoring and comparisons with measurements from other years.
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Steps to reproduce
Snow samples were collected at 59 monitoring points across Jelgava city and one rural reference site, with three replicate samples taken at each site. Sampling was performed approximately 5 m from roadways or pedestrian paths using a cleaned metal ring (25 cm diameter, 7 cm height). After melting, samples were analyzed for 14 chemical elements using an Agilent 8900 ICP-QQQ with a Micro-mist nebulizer and a helium collision/reaction cell. Calibration was performed using certified standards traceable to NIST, with internal standards and regular verification for quality control. Element concentrations are reported in µg/L.