Abstract
Analysis is conducted on the temporal and spatial variations of stable isotopic composition in precipitation, using the data of IAEA/WMO sampling stations, in Yangtze river basin. The correlations between δ18O in precipitation and air temperature/amount of precipitation are analyzed at individual stations and in the whole valley on monthly or annual scales. There is a notable amount effect, the distinct inverse relationship between δ18O and precipitation, on monthly scale in the Yangtze valley and at the selected stations except Chongqing. Compared with monthly scale, the positive correlation between δ18O and air temperature is more marked on annual scale. The interannual variations of δ18O reflect the change of large-scale climate and environment, and are mainly controlled by large-scale weather conditions.
Highlights
Two stable isotopes deuterium (D) and oxygen-18 (18O) occer naturally in waters
Stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen are an integral part of the water molecule itself, and are commonly seen as ideal tracers
To apply the stable isotope tool to the study of water cycle mechanisms, such as the mutual transformation of surface water and groundwater, groundwater replenishment, etc., the most important prerequisite is to deeply understand the composition of atmospheric precipitation isotopes, because the input item of the water cycle-atmospheric precipitation is the fundamental source of inland water resources
Summary
Two stable isotopes deuterium (D) and oxygen-18 (18O) occer naturally in waters. Stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen are an integral part of the water molecule itself, and are commonly seen as ideal tracers. Past related studies in China [2] were mostly based on fund projects and conducted local (or single-site) studies with a short period of time. It is still not clear about the relationship between long-term atmospheric precipitation isotopes, temperature and precipitation in China’s inland areas. This paper uses the monitoring data in the GNIP database to analyze the long-term trend of stable isotopic changes of atmospheric precipitation in the Yangtze River Basin in China. The composition and changes of atmospheric precipitation isotope in the Yangtze River Basin at different scales were shown, which will be helpful to establish a water cycle model in the Yangtze River Basin, clarify the characteristics of the water cycle, identify the temporal and spatial distribution of water resources, and determine the sustainable development model of water resources
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