Chemical Oceanography: Nutrient Cycling and Contaminant Transport in Marine Systems

Tracy Mincer()
Erik Zettler()

Abstract

Chemical oceanography plays a crucial role in understanding nutrient cycling and contaminant transport in marine systems. This paper provides an overview of key processes and mechanisms involved in these phenomena and discusses the implications for marine ecosystems and human activities. Nutrient cycling in the ocean is driven by biological, physical, and chemical processes, including primary production, remineralization, and nutrient limitation. The availability and cycling of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and iron influence primary productivity and shape the structure of marine food webs. Contaminant transport in marine systems involves the dispersion, transformation, and bioaccumulation of pollutants originating from various anthropogenic sources. Pollutants such as heavy metals, organic pollutants, and nutrients can have detrimental effects on marine organisms and ecosystems, including bioaccumulation in food chains and the disruption of ecological processes. Furthermore, human activities, such as industrial and agricultural practices, coastal development, and climate change, can significantly impact nutrient cycling and contaminant transport in marine systems. Understanding these processes is essential for effective management and conservation of marine resources and ecosystems. Integrated approaches combining field observations, laboratory experiments, and numerical modeling can provide valuable insights into nutrient cycling and contaminant transport dynamics in marine environments. This interdisciplinary research is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate the impacts of contaminants and promote sustainable management of marine ecosystems.

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.26549/jms.v5i2.15919