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In Situ Analysis of Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Plume Mineral Particulates
Collaborators:
Sheri White (WHOI AOP&E)
Chris German (WHOI G&G)
We are developing a quantitative approach for using in situ laser Raman spectroscopy to determine the mineral composition of hydrothermal plume particulates. Fe and Mn mineral formation is complex, involving the precipitation, transformation, and dissolution of a variety of species some of which are thermodynamically unstable. Raman spectroscopy allows reliable measurements of these minerals to be made in situ ? where they form. The ability to study Fe and Mn compounds in situ will improve our understanding of: i) the impact of Fe and Mn cycling upon global ocean chemistry; ii) the extent to which Fe and Mn oxidation can fuel chemosynthetic life within the water column above hydrothermal vents; iii) and the chemical evolution of hydrothermal systems themselves. |
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