Abstract

In this study, source regions of atmospheric sulfate and nitrate in rural areas at the Black Sea and the Mediterranean coasts of Turkey are compared. Stations on the Black Sea and Mediterranean Sea are located at Amasra and Antalya regions, respectively. Source regions of SO4 2- and NO3 - are determined by using potential source contribution function (PSCF). Statistical significance of source regions assigned by PSCF were assured using bootstrapping with 3000 iterations. Source regions affecting sulfate and nitrate concentrations at the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions have some similarities and differences. Emissions from source regions in Russia and Balkan countries affect both the Mediterranean and Black Sea basins.

Keywords: Bootstrap, Mediterranean, Black Sea, Sulfate, Nitrate, PSCF