Abstract
Unsupported 210Pb fluxes were determined from sediment core inventories in lakes located in Northern Patagonia, Argentina. Total 210Pb, 226Ra, associated with supported 210Pb, and 137Cs specific activity profiles were measured by gamma-ray spectrometry. Unsupported 210Pb fluxes showed very low values when compared to other regions, with a 12 fold variation, ranging from 4 to 48 Bq m−2.y−1. The linear correlation observed between the 210Pb fluxes and137Cs cumulative fluxes in sediment cores sampled from water bodies within a zone with similar precipitation demonstrated that both radioisotopes behave in the same manner in these systems concerning the processes occurred from fallout to sediment deposition, and that there are no appreciable local or regional sources of unsupported 210Pb. Positive correlation of 210Pb fluxes with organic matter contents of the uppermost sediment core layers was also observed.
Published Version
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