CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Abbott, M.B.; and Stafford Jr., T.W.
Date : 1996
Title : Radiocarbon geochemistry of modern and ancient Arctic lake systems, Baffin Island, Canada
Publication : Quaternary Research
Issue : 45(3):
Page(s) : 300-311
Abstract
The accuracy of Arctic lake chronologies has been assessed by measuring the 14C activities of modern carbon sources and applying these isotopic mass balances to dating fossil lake materials. Small (<1 km2) shallow (<25 m) Arctic lakes with watersheds <12 km2 have soil and peat stratigraphic sections with 14C activities ranging from 98 to 51% Modern. The 14C activity of particulate organic carbon, dissolved organic carbon, and dissolved inorganic carbon from lake and stream waters ranges from 121 to 95% Modern. The sediment-water interface of the studied lakes shows consistent 14C ages of &sim1000 14C yr, although the 14C activity of living aquatic vegetation is 115% Modern. Radiocarbon measurements of components of the lacustrine carbon pool imply that the &sim1000 14C yr age of the sediment-water interface results from deposition of 14C-depleted organic matter derived from the watershed.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology