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The large-number hypothesis conjectures that fundamental constants may vary. Accordingly, the space-time variation of fundamental constants has been an active subject of research for decades. Recently, using data obtained with large telescopes a phenomenological model in which the fine structure constant might vary spatially has been proposed. We test whether this hypothetical spatial variation of alpha, which follows a dipole law, is compatible with the data of distant thermonuclear supernovae. Unlike previous works, in our calculations we consider not only the variation of the luminosity distance when a varying alpha is adopted, but we also take into account the variation of the peak luminosity of Type Ia supernovae resulting from a variation of alpha. This is done using an empirical relation for the peak bolometric magnitude of thermonuclear supernovae that correctly reproduces the results of detailed numerical simulations. We find that there is no significant difference between the several phenomenological models studied here and the standard one, in which alpha does not vary spatially. We conclude that the present set of data of Type Ia supernovae is not able to distinguish the standard model from the dipole models, and thus cannot be used to discard nor to confirm the proposed spatial variation of alpha., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

Organochlorine pesticides (DDTs, HCHs, HCB) and selected PCBs were analyzed in samples from a firn core drilled on the Lys Glacier (4240m above sea level, Monte Rosa Group, Italian Alps) in Summer 2000. The samples covered a relatively short time interval (from 1997 to 2000) and a seasonal detail breakdown was possible. A probable seasonal trend was observed only for g-HCH, a pesticide currently used in some European countries. For all other chemicals, a seasonal trend was not evident, and this supports the hypothesis of the prevailing role of long-range transport in comparison with local emissions for POP pollution in high mountains. The role of temperature on air¿snow exchange has also been highlighted.

Organochlorine chemicals (OCs) (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes, hexachlorocyclohexanes, and hexachlorobenzene) were measured in ice melt water from five glaciers in the Italian Alps. Even though the data collected may not be sufficient for a precise description of persistent organic pollutant release patterns from glacier melting, they have, however, highlighted the potential for surface water contamination. Concentrations were of the same order of magnitude in all glacial streams, indicating comparable contamination levels in different glaciers of the alpine region. OC levels in nonglacial springs sampled in the same areas are usually lower. Even if differences during the melting season (from spring to autumn) have been identified, a regular seasonal pattern in OC concentrations was not observed. Risk for the aquatic environment is excluded through direct water exposure, but it is likely to occur through biomagnification and secondary poisoning exposure.

An ice-core, drilled on Lys Glacier (Italian Alps), was analysed to determine PCB concentration. Contamination was characterised by low chlorinated congeners (di-, tri- and sometimes tetra- chlorobiphenyls) for all the investigated periods. The historical trend indicates the maximum concentration occurring in the early 1980's. These results are highly correlated to PCB technical mixture burden and physical-chemical properties. The role of temperature on PCB environmental fate is highlighted. High mountains can be considered to be a cold condenser.