ISSN:
1420-9055
Keywords:
Key words: H2O2, tracer, mixing, lakes, eddy diffusion coefficient, UV.
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract: Vertical eddy diffusion coefficients (K z ) were estimated for the epilimnion of lakes using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as a natural, photochemically produced tracer. Modelled profiles of H2O2 production were combined with observed profiles from the photochemically active region and the waters below in which H2O2 had penetrated to calculate K z values for the epilimnion of Lakes Erie and Ontario, and for two bays in a small lake in Ontario, Canada (Jacks Lake). K z values in both Lake Erie and Lake Ontario were 10−5 to 10−2 m2 s−1 during our study period. Values of K z from Jacks Lake reflected the prevailing wind conditions but also varied with site. In a wide (3 km) bay with relatively clear water, K z values ranged from 10−5 m2 s−1 during calm periods to 10−4 m2 s−1 during windy periods. The K z values were lower in the smaller bay with higher concentrations of dissolved humic material, increasing from 10−6 m2 s−1 during calm periods to 10−4 m2 s−1 during wind-induced mixing. The differences in K z , as determined by this photochemical tracer, a function of lake surface area and wind speed support the applicability of H2O2 in quantifying vertical mixing in the surface layer of small and large lakes.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s000270050033
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