Environmental Monitoring and Analysis

Contents: Foreword. 1. Introduction to environmental analysis. 2. Water sampling. 3. Instrumental techniques of water analysis. 4. Bacteriological parameters. 5. Soil sediment sampling. 6. Soil sediment analysis. 7. Introduction to air pollution. 8. Environmental analysis of air. 9. Air sampling and air monitoring. 10. Procedures for air analysis. Bibliography. Index.

"Environmental analysis may be defined as the evaluation of natural environment and of damage to it through human and non-human agencies. Thus, environmental analysis involves efficient monitoring of the general environment. This is essential because by this one becomes sure what control measures are required and whether those are in operation have been working. Thus, if one is able to develop a through understanding of structural and functional attributes of the environment by involving environmental analysis, one can avoid the impending ecological catastrophes.

In recent years, ecological research is not only confined to mere qualitative approach but is more confined to quantitative approach. In order to have a comprehensive evaluation of an ecosystem, it becomes essential to monitor both qualitatively and quantitatively spatial and temporal variations in structural and functional attributes of environment which may be categorized as physical, chemical and biological.
The biosphere is defined as the layer of soils, water and air that surrounds the planet. Earth along with the living organisms for which it provides support. In the oncoming chapters, an attempt has been made to describe sampling and monitoring methods for various environmental factors such as water, air and soil. We have chosen those analyses which are most often of importance to workers\' interest in sociological processes which lead, with Inter conversion of energy to the production of organic material. The environment has important effect on such processes.

The actual task of selecting appropriate measuring procedures, is a massive one and should involve large numbers of experienced scientists working in conjunction with other professions.

This book will be of immense help to all those contemplating to acquire expert knowledge of environmental monitoring and analysis." (jacket)