Distributions and removal fluxes of trace metals in the water column of the Hung-Tsai Trough off southwestern Taiwan

Wei, Ching-Ling; Jiann, Kuo-Tung; Wen, Liang-Saw; Sheu, David D.-D.

Distributions and removal fluxes of trace metals in the water column of the Hung-Tsai Trough off southwestern Taiwan

2012

Wei, Ching-Ling | Jiann, Kuo-Tung | Wen, Liang-Saw | Sheu, David D.-D.

Vertical profiles of dissolved and particulate Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, and ²³⁴Th were determined in the Hung-Tsai Trough off southwestern Taiwan during 19–23 November, 2004. Except in the case of Cd, the distribution coefficient (Kd) of the trace elements showed a negative correlation with the suspended particle concentration. Based on the average Kd values, the general sequence of particle affinities for the eight trace elements is, from highest to lowest, Fe>Mn≈Pb>Zn≈Th>Cd≈Cu≈Ni. The trace metal data was coupled with the particle removal flux estimated from ²³⁴Th/²³⁸U disequilibrium to investigate metal removal by particle sinking from the euphotic layer. The residence time of trace elements with respect to particle removal from the euphotic layer was estimated. A negative correlation between the residence time and the distribution coefficient for the trace metals was found.

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