Application of Singularity Theory to the Distribution of Heavy Metals in Surface Sediments of the Zhongsha Islands

Abstract

This research aimed to use nonlinear theory and technology to describe the spatial distribution of heavy metals in the surface sediments of the Zhongsha Islands Sea region. The goal of this study is to explore the spatial distribution characteristics of heavy metals in the surface sediments of the Zhongsha Islands. The singularity theory and method were used to delineate heavy metal geochemical anomalies and the generalized self-similarity analysis method was used to decompose heavy metal geochemical anomalies and background concentrations. The results showed that there were abnormally high concentrations of heavy metals in the deep-sea plain area and in the western central sand trough area. The results of this study can inform priority areas for environmental monitoring. The element anomalies extracted by the singularity analysis method in this paper can be a guide to the next step in the investigation and provide the basis for the regional environmental assessment.