Significant contribution of dissolved organic matter to seawater alkalinity

摘要: [1] The present study shows a previously undocumented role of dissolved organic matter in the marine carbonate system. During photosynthesis, phytoplankton release compounds containing basic functional groups that readily react with protons during seawater titration, and thereby contribute to alkalinity (a measure buffering capacity). The magnitude contribution is species dependent, suggesting individual exude unique proton accepting capacities. Our produced by photosynthesis newly identified component ocean, indicates can be significant biologically productive upper where date it has been unrecognized or considered insignificant.