Impact of an episodic event on copper and zinc concentrations and speciation in surface waters of the Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

Electrochemical and chelation/extraction trace metal techniques are used to develop an understanding of changes in copper and zinc concentrations and speciation associated with a hydrographic and atmospheric event which occurred during an 8-day station in the Gulf of Mexico. Changes in copper and zinc concentrations and speciation coincided with physical changes and biological productivity stimulation. In normally oligotrophic water masses it is possible that episodic events, such as inputs from beneath the mixed layer or aeolian transport, may impact the interaction of trace metals and marine biological processes.