Stable sulfur isotope ratios as a tool for interpreting ecosystem sulfur dynamics

R. D. Fuller, M. J. Mitchell, H. R. Krouse, B. J. Wyskowski, C. T. Driscoll

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

50 Scopus citations

Abstract

Stable S isotope ratios (σ34S) were evaluated in soil solution leachates, soluble plus adsorbed soil SOinf4sup2-, soil organic S, precipitation, and in stream solutions along an elevational gradient at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in the White Mts. of New Hampshire, U.S.A. The σ34S of soil organic S varied with soil horizon and vegetation type, but was generally more negative than adsorbed or soil solution SOinf4sup2-. In the Bh horizon, σ34S of organic S was typically more negative than the Oa horizon or lower mineral soil (Bsl). The patterns suggest a combination of plant and microbial fractionation processes. Stream σ34S values decreased with decreasing elevation and were correlated with decreases in SOinf4sup2-concentration, suggesting an additional S source in higher elevation coniferous sites with a unique σ34S.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)163-171
Number of pages9
JournalWater, Air, and Soil Pollution
Volume28
Issue number1-2
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 1986

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Environmental Engineering
  • Environmental Chemistry
  • Ecological Modeling
  • Water Science and Technology
  • Pollution

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Stable sulfur isotope ratios as a tool for interpreting ecosystem sulfur dynamics'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this