Geomorphic and ecologic fundamentals of the air quality in the vicinity of Kaz Mountains

Abstract

Lying along the SW-NE direction, Mount Ida is the highest landform on the Biga peninsula in the northwest of Turkey. The highest point of this mountainous mass is the Karatas hill. The purpose of this study is to determine the geomorphological and ecological origins of air quality on and around Mount Ida. To that end, parameters such as temperature, precipitation, wind, and humidity, and geomorphological features such as inclination, elevation, and aspect, and other ecological conditions were determined. Then, these data were linked together and evaluated in terms of their effects on air quality. Mount Ida is a landform consisting of parts that rise in small distances starting from the sea. This landform is split by narrow and deep valleys. These valleys function as a corridor used by air currents because of temperature differences between day and night. Thus, due to the influence of parameters such as orographic features, geographical location, climate, flora and density, and geomorphological features, a strong and constant air circulation occurs on and around Mount Ida. Air circulation in the fieldwork area continually cleans the air, and the lack of industrial facilities contributes to air quality.