Uranium Series Isotopes TDV

During 2002-2003, water samples were collected from 22 streams, the hyporeic zone was sampled in 3 streams and water column profiles were collected for 4 dry valley lakes (12 profiles). Soil samples were also collected. For these samples, uranium series isotope analyses were performed. This included uranium isotope ratios (U234/U238), Po210, Rn222 and Ra228/228 isotopes. A mass balance of U series isotopes was done from source to sinks. The findings of this research has important implications about the weathering processes in dry, wet environment. Specifically, chemical weathering occurs at rates comparable to many temperate environments despite current arguments that higher temperatures and moisture are needed. The intimate interrelationship between physical and chemical weathering is key to understanding this phenomena. This research was supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 0087994