It is now apparent that atmospheric inputs of chemical constituents to the marine environment are quantitatively significant. Indeed, the distribution of constituents in seawater and marine biogeochemical processes are known to be strongly influenced by atmospheric inputs. Our research aim is to determine the factors influencing atmospheric transport and deposition of trace elements (i.e. Al, Fe, Mn, Co, Ni, Cd, Pb, Zn Cu, V Mo, Na) and, more recently, the macronutrients nitrogen and phosphorus. This knowledge is key to quantifying their impact on biogeochemical cycles in marine systems and developing effective global models. Analytical techniques we use include trace level automated colorimetry (nutrients), high temperature catalytic oxidation (organic carbon and nitrogen) ICP-MS and ICP-AES (trace metals and other trace elements).
Staff working in this area: Dr Simon Ussher
Atmospheric Processes
In the Biogeochemistry Research Centre
