Air-sea exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen induced by phytoplankton: methods and interpretation

This chapter discusses analytical methods that were used to continuously sample physical, chemical, and biological variability in the oceans while underway in R.V. New Horizon in July 1979. Some statistical methods useful in the analysis and interpretation of these data also are given. Data indicate that the in situ concentrations of CO/sub 2/ and O/sub 2/ can depart radically from their expected oceanic equilibrium values with respect to their atmospheric components in active upwelling areas. The departure from equilibrium is caused by both physical and biological processes. Dominant length scales are associated with the biological processes. The global distribution of primary productivity coupled with these and other small- and mesoscale measurements suggests that coastal and polar regions may be in nonequilibrium with respect to O/sub 2/-CO/sub 2/ exchange between ocean and atmosphere during parts of the year. The equatorial regions may be in nonequilibrium throughout the year. Consequently, the use of direct oceanic CO/sub 2/ transport models based on total CO/sub 2/, alkalinity, and apparent O/sub 2/ utilization relationships are in question. 72 references, 18 figures.