Hydrochemistry and baseline values of major and trace elements in tropical surface waters of the Terengganu River (Malaysia)

Hydrochemistry of 27 elements and 8 anions in tropical surface waters of the Terengganu River (Malaysia) was investigated. Dissolved elemental concentrations changed significantly with distance along the flow path depending on redox and pH, often reflecting natural enrichment. High nitrate concentration is probably associated with untreated waste water input, agricultural runoff, and atmospheric input. Overall, the quality of water was found to be acceptable with the exception of a few sites. Dilution effects, water residence times and the weathering of local mineral deposits exert major control over hydrochemistry.