The vertical distribution of cesium 137 and strontium 90 in the oceans
Oceanic mixing rates derived from published measurements of Cs/sup 137/ and Sr/sup 90/ are at least a factor of 5 greater than those based on measurements of cosmic-ray produced C/sup 14/. In an attempt to resolve this anomaly, samples are obtained by the staff of the Columbia University research vessel Vema from which Cs/sup 137/, Sr/sup 90/, C/sup 14/, Ra/sup 226/ H/sup 3/, total Sr, total Cs, and total Ba can be determined. The techniques used for the Cs/sup 137/ and Sr/sup 90/ measurements are described and the results are presented for these two isotopes in profiles from the Caribbean, the eastern South Pacific, the Antarctic, and the Nortu and South Atlantic oceans. No measurable amounts of Cs/sup 137/ or Sr/sup 90/ are found in the majority of samples taken below 300 meters. The observed distribution is more in keeping with that of natural radiocarbon.
- Research Organization:
- Tracerlab, Waltham, Mass.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- NSA Number:
- NSA-17-032273
- OSTI ID:
- 4663776
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Geophysical Research, Journal Name: Journal of Geophysical Research Journal Issue: 15 Vol. 68; ISSN 0148-0227
- Publisher:
- American Geophysical Union
- Country of Publication:
- Country unknown/Code not available
- Language:
- English
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CESIUM 137 AND STRONTIUM 90 IN SEA WATER
/sup 137/Cs to /sup 90/Sr ratios in the Atlantic Ocean 1966 through 1972