Dispersion of Particle‐Reactive Elements Caused by the Phase Transitions in Scavenging

Abstract

Scavenging of particle-reactive elements is the removal of a dissolved element in seawater through adsorption onto sinking particulate matter that is eventually deposited on the ocean floor. The settling particulate element is transferred back into a dissolved state by the desorption and remineralization mechanisms. The adsorption-settling-desorption processes are then repeated, resulting in the transfer of elements into the deep ocean. Scavenging is an important pathway for the transfer of nutrients and essential trace elements in the ocean. Radioactive trace isotopes of natural (e.g.