Showing papers by "Christ University published in 2002"

Rainwater Harvesting in India

Abstract: The objective of this article is to provide awareness into the process of rainwater harvesting so as to make people proactive in conserving fast depleting water resources through this technique, which has been used in India from time immemorial, but is now forgotten behind the insignia of modernisation. The article highlights the benefits of rainwater harvesting such as: provision of an economical water conservation measure, reduction of the burden on other sources of water, provision for agriculture when there is no rainfall, alternative and cleaner source of drinking water, prevention of top soil erosion, reduction of the possibility of floods, improved plant growth, greater responsiveness of water provision, and connection of water supply to natural water cycle. It also gives information regarding the rainwater harvesting practices in some countries abroad for further comparison and research into those practices by those who feel interested. Details of different techniques of rainwater harvesting are furnished so as to inculcate interest in the process. Calculation of rainwater harvesting potential is also discussed for estimating the possible benefits. How far India has moved in this direction is briefed for those who would want to bring about changes connected to their micro set up or policy making at macro level. The article is an endeavour to give a factual picture of rainwater harvesting in India, with the hope that it would inspire more popular implementation of this futuristic source of water conservation.

Acid rain-an invisible threat

Abstract: Acid Rain is defined as precipitation (rain) that has a pH lower than 5.6, which is the pH expected in distilled water exposed to the atmosphere. (pH is a measure ot the acidity or alkalinity of a water sample.) The pH Of precipitation undoubtedly is affected by a variety of natural sources of acidic and alkaline materials (e.g. volcanic gases, gases from decompoSng Organic matter and soil dust). However it has recently become apparent that rain and snow in certain regions of the earth are consistently more acidic than expected. The European Atmosphere Chemistry Net Work first recognized that the pH of precipitation was declining in Scandinavia during the late 1960's. Current data indicates that the mean annual pH in this region was 5.0 - 5.5 in the late 1950's which declined to 4.2 • 4.4 in the mid 1970's. In Eastern North America precipitation is now more acidic than in Scandinavia. The median pH for 1978 • 1979 ranged from 4.0 to 4.4 in North Eastern U.S. and South Eastem Canada. Although there is disagreement over the Source and nature Of acidic precipitation , the most widely accepted view is that the increased acidity is a result of the presence Of increased quantities Of sulphuric and nitric acids. These acids are believed to result from oxidation Of sulphur and nitrogen oxide gases. Oxides of sulphur and nitrogen are produced from combustion of fossil fuels, metal smelting and various industrial processes.