Redfield ratio based on chemical data from isopycnal surfaces

摘要: The composition of the organic matter oxidized within thermocline Atlantic and Indian oceans has been estimated from chemical data along σθ 27.0 27.2 horizons. These estimates are based on differences between preformed observed concentrations PO4, NO3, total inorganic CO2, alkalinity, O2. Since these isopycnal horizons ventilated both north south, concentration take into account relative contributions two end-members. proportions end-members basis potential temperature water, assuming that no cross-isopycnal mixing occurred. Except for northern Ocean, waters entering is established through linear extrapolation property-oxygen trends to oxygen saturation. do not outcrop in receive spilling Ocean Red Sea. Therefore Sea overflow water with densities taken be end-member. results this study indicate accepted Redfield P:N:C: −O2 ratio 1:16:106:138 requires revision. Our analysis yields a 1:16:103:172 if carbon value represented by increase CO2 concentration. On other hand, assumed utilization minus used oxidation NH3 moles O2 per nitrogen atom, 1:16:140:172 obtained. Thus P: lies 1:103 1:140. This discrepancy may accounted increased source as result uptake anthropogenic or an excess demand hydrogenated molecules. Therefore, without firm knowledge either corrections effect hydrogen content biological residues, true P:C cannot P:CaCO3 dissolution about 1:12. indicates produced derived CaCO3 bout 10:1 at density