Pollution potential of aquatic sediments cancelled Corbeau A water policy-land use computer simulation model
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Abstract
Existing water pollution problems did not occur suddenly, nor will this problem be solved overnight, even if there were no further pollutional discharges. This is because significant fractions of the past incoming pollutants have accumulated in the sediment phase, which can gradually and continuously release the pollutants into the overlying water, thereby degrading the water quality. This study was undertaken to investigate important physical, chemical, and microbiological factors which may govern the release of pollutants from aquatic sediments and subsequent effects on water quality. The sediment samples utilized in this study were from the Missouri River at Jefferson City, Missouri, and the Burgher Branch near Rolla, Missouri. The experimental parameters examined include pH, temperature, and microbial activity. Data of COD, nitrogen, and phosphorus were used as indicators of pollutant release. Results obtained in this study have indicated that the mechanisms of pollutant release are mostly physical-chemical in nature. Biological or microbial action plays only a minor role. Magnitudes of pollutant release have been found to be more pH dependent than temperature dependent. An increase in pH will result in a corresponding increase in organic release which may be explained in part by the increased dissociation of humic acids at a higher pH. Under a closed test system such as one used in this investigation, the pollutant release can reach a nearly equilibrium condition in a matter of two or three days.
This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Geological Survey and the Missouri Water Center under the Grant/Cooperative Agreement.
The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as representing the opinions or policies of the U.S. Geological Survey or Missouri Water Center. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute their endorsement by the U.S. Geological Survey or Missouri Water Center.
This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Geological Survey and the Missouri Water Center under the Grant/Cooperative Agreement.
The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as representing the opinions or policies of the U.S. Geological Survey or Missouri Water Center. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute their endorsement by the U.S. Geological Survey or Missouri Water Center.