Geochemistry of Organic Matter in Ocean - by Austin Brennan (Hardcover)

About the Book

Geochemistry is the scientific study of the chemical composition, distribution, and processes that govern the behavior of elements and compounds in Earth's crust, oceans, atmosphere, and other geological environments. Organic matter in the ocean plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems and global biogeochemical cycles. It consists of living organisms, detritus, and dissolved organic compounds. Phytoplankton, the primary producers, form the base of the marine food web by converting sunlight and carbon dioxide into organic matter through photosynthesis. This organic matter is then consumed by zooplankton and higher trophic levels, including fish and marine mammals. Decomposing organic matter, such as dead organisms and waste products, contributes to the detrital pool, which is broken down by bacteria and other microorganisms, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) includes a variety of compounds that influence the ocean's chemical properties and microbial activity. The cycling of organic matter impacts carbon sequestration, affecting climate regulation by controlling the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This book unravels the recent studies in the field of geochemistry of organic matter in oceans. It consists of contributions made by international experts. For all those who are interested in this subject, this book can prove to be an essential guide.

Book Synopsis

Geochemistry is the scientific study of the chemical composition, distribution, and processes that govern the behavior of elements and compounds in Earth's crust, oceans, atmosphere, and other geological environments. Organic matter in the ocean plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems and global biogeochemical cycles. It consists of living organisms, detritus, and dissolved organic compounds. Phytoplankton, the primary producers, form the base of the marine food web by converting sunlight and carbon dioxide into organic matter through photosynthesis. This organic matter is then consumed by zooplankton and higher trophic levels, including fish and marine mammals. Decomposing organic matter, such as dead organisms and waste products, contributes to the detrital pool, which is broken down by bacteria and other microorganisms, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) includes a variety of compounds that influence the ocean's chemical properties and microbial activity. The cycling of organic matter impacts carbon sequestration, affecting climate regulation by controlling the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This book unravels the recent studies in the field of geochemistry of organic matter in oceans. It consists of contributions made by international experts. For all those who are interested in this subject, this book can prove to be an essential guide.