Controls on the spatial and temporal variability of Rn-222 in riparian groundwater in a lowland Chalk catchment.

Mullinger, Neil J. and Pates, Jackie M. and Binley, Andrew M. and Crook, N. P. (2009) Controls on the spatial and temporal variability of Rn-222 in riparian groundwater in a lowland Chalk catchment. Journal of Hydrology, 376 (1-2). pp. 58-69.

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Abstract

Radon is a powerful tracer of stream-aquifer interactions. However, it is important to consider the source and behaviour of radon in groundwater when interpreting observations of river radon in relation to groundwater discharge. Here we characterise the variability in groundwater radon concentrations in the riparian zone of a Chalk catchment. Groundwater 222Rn (radon) concentrations were determined in riparian zone boreholes at two sites in the Lambourn catchment, Berkshire, UK, over a two year period. In addition, borehole core material was analysed for 226Ra (radium) and to determine radon emanation. Radon and radium concentrations and radon emanation were found to change with depth and temporal variations in groundwater radon concentrations were found at different scales. The abundance of radium and emanation of radon increased nearer the surface leading to greater groundwater radon concentrations. It is shown that seasonal changes in water table elevation can to lead to variable radon concentrations in groundwater as zones of radon production become hydraulically active. Groundwater radon concentrations in shallow piezometers were found to respond to both seasonal changes in the water table and individual rainfall events. Riparian sources of radon can be variable and are therefore potentially influential in the radon signals observed in rivers and should be properly characterised when interpreting river radon inputs.

Item Type:
Journal Article
Journal or Publication Title:
Journal of Hydrology
Additional Information:
The final, definitive version of this article has been published in the Journal, Journal of Hydrology 376 (1-2), 2009, © ELSEVIER.
Uncontrolled Keywords:
/dk/atira/pure/subjectarea/asjc/2300/2312
Subjects:
?? radon groundwater chalk aquifer stream-aquifer interactionswater science and technologyge environmental sciences ??
ID Code:
26792
Deposited By:
Deposited On:
22 Jul 2009 13:39
Refereed?:
Yes
Published?:
Published
Last Modified:
29 Feb 2024 00:37