A COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT OF WATER RESOURCES IN THE VARIOUS TRIBUTARIES OF THE SHIN RIVER LOCATED IN THE NORTHWESTERN REGION OF AZERBAIJAN

This article presents the results of physicochemical, electrochemical, and ionic composition analyses of samples collected from natural water sources located in the Mehdili, Goshabulag, Gorugarasi, Dostdag, and Ayridere tributaries of the Shin River. The pH, oxidation–reduction potential (Eh), total ion concentration, and the major cation and anion composition of the waters were determined, and the results were jointly analyzed based on a hydrogeochemical approach. The comprehensive assessment indicates that the waters are predominantly weakly alkaline, weakly reducing, and belong to the magnesium sulfate hydrogeochemical type. The findings provide a scientific basis for a deeper understanding of regional hydrogeochemical processes and the sustainable management of water resources. Correlation analysis shows that sulfate strongly controls total mineralization (r = 0.94, p < 0.01). Sodium and magnesium display a moderate positive relationship (r = 0.78, p < 0.05), indicating a shared geological source. pH and Eh are weakly and negatively correlated (r = −0.42, p > 0.05), suggesting limited interaction between redox conditions and pH. Calcium and sulfate also correlate moderately (r = 0.72, p < 0.05), reflecting evaporite dissolution.