O-18 COMPOSITION OF VARIOUS WATER TYPES IN THE HYDROLOGICAL CYCLE OF WEST-CENTRAL FLORIDA

Stable oxygen isotope compositions of natural waters have proven to be excellent tracers for transfers from one reservoir to another, and have been used in this study of the hydrological cycle of west-central Florida. During the period of 1991-1992, rainwater, atmospheric water vapor, ground water i...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Florida scientist 1995-01, Vol.58 (2), p.155-162
Main Authors: Netratanawong, T., Sackett, W.M.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aquifers
Atmospherics
Brackish
Freshwater
Groundwater
Isotopes
Marine
Rain
Sea water
Swamps
Tap water
Water cycle
Water vapor
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Summary:Stable oxygen isotope compositions of natural waters have proven to be excellent tracers for transfers from one reservoir to another, and have been used in this study of the hydrological cycle of west-central Florida. During the period of 1991-1992, rainwater, atmospheric water vapor, ground water in a transect from the Green Swamp to coastal southwest Hillsborough County, and selected tap waters have been monitored for δ18O (ratio of 18O/16O of sample compared to a standard in parts per thousand). Compositions in terms of δ18O for the above types of waters were -4.4, -13.6, -2.8, and -2.4 o/oo, respectively. δ18O in Floridan water in west-central Florida is invariant during the one and one-half year study, but is heavier than the δ18O of rainwater. Calculation of the fractionation factor between atmospheric water vapor and rainwater, collected in St. Petersburg, indicates there is an isotopic equilibrium between the two phases at ≈ 25°C. Tap water has slightly heavier δ18O, compared to ground water. Interactions of old ground water with carbonate aquifer and/or saltwater/gypsum bed are possibly responsible for heavier δ18O in ground water near coastal areas.
ISSN:0098-4590