Statistical analysis of the spatial distribution of impurities in the snow cover in the vicinity of copper mine in the Middle Ural of Russia

Abstract

Statistical analysis of the monitoring data of industrial enterprises influence zones is an important part of the researches related to natural environment changes. In present study, a cluster analysis of the elemental composition of the snow cover in the vicinity of a copper mine was carried out. The data were obtained as a result of the chemical analysis of the snow samples collected during annual environmental monitoring in the region of Rezh town (the Middle Ural of Russia), where Safyanovsky Copper Mine and Rezhevsky Nickel Plant are located. The elements identified by chemical analysis were grouped according to the strength of the correlation bond. The cluster analysis of these groups made it possible to identify and separate the influence zones of the Plant, Mine and other industrial objects located in the area. The obtained results became the basis for adjusting the snow cover monitoring scheme. © 2018 Author(s).