Presenter: Dr. Eleanor Bates

The distribution of trace elements in the ocean encodes information about ocean processes that are otherwise difficult to observe directly, such as biological demand of trace micronutrients, external inputs, and ocean circulation. In this talk, I’ll draw on two research studies to illustrate how trace metals can be used as geochemical tracers in the marine environment. First, I’ll discuss time-series observations of trace element cycling at Station ALOHA, a long-term oceanographic time-series site in the subtropical North Pacific. This work focused on understanding seasonal variability in the biogeochemical cycling of iron, a critical micronutrient for phytoplankton. Trace elements aluminum and titanium were used to identify seasonal changes in sources of iron to Station ALOHA. The second half of the talk will turn to my current work with IARC, centering on the use of gallium as a geochemical tracer in the Amundsen Sea in Antarctica. Here, we examine physical and biogeochemical processes as drivers of gallium distributions on a rapidly changing Antarctic continental shelf. Together, these two studies highlight the versatility of trace metals as tracers of ocean processes across marine environments.

To schedule a meeting with Dr. Bates (Sept 22-24) or for more information, contact Laura Whitmore at lmwhitmore@alaska.edu.

LOCATION: Akasofu Building, Room 401 or via Zoom