The distribution of cobalt, nickel, and silver in ocean water profiles around Pacific Antarctica

Abstract

The concentrations of cobalt, nickel, and silver, determined by neutron activation analysis, are systematically lower in the east Pacific sector of the Antarctic Ocean relative to other oceanic areas. This is indicated by two traverses between 70°S and 54°S at 115°W and about 90°W. Transport of cobalt, nickel, and silver from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean via the Drake Passage is thus minimal. Calculations based on the silver concentration in Pacific and antarctic waters and antarctic sediments indicate that a flow rate 1% of that predicted for the transport of Pacific deep water is consistent with the data. The dissolving of glacial flour may be responsible for the relatively high concentrations of cobalt and nickel encountered at the closest approach to the antarctic continent.