Abstract
Stable lead (Pb) isotopes have been regarded as tracers of ocean circulation, both in the present time and geological past. Here we present a new dataset of seawater Pb concentrations and isotope compositions for ten depth profiles from the South Atlantic Ocean (GEOTRACES cruises GA02 and GA10). By comparing Pb isotope data collected on the two cruises, and by modelling the distribution of Pb with an extended optimum multiparameter analysis, we find evidence of vertical transport of anthropogenic Pb pollution due to reversible scavenging. Surface to depth transfer of polluted Pb is aided by high suspended particulate matter loads at the Brazil – Malvinas Confluence and along ∼40°S in the South Atlantic. Overall, our findings caution the use of Pb isotope ratios as ventilation tracers in the South Atlantic and emphasize the importance of particle-seawater interaction for biogeochemical cycles.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 118980 |
| Number of pages | 15 |
| Journal | Earth and Planetary Science Letters |
| Volume | 646 |
| Early online date | 19 Sept 2024 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 15 Nov 2024 |
UN SDGs
This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
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SDG 14 Life Below Water
Keywords
- Lead isotopes
- Scavenging
- Seawater
- Pollution
- GEOTRACES
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