Phosphorus
Of all the elements likely to occur in fresh water, phosphorus has received more attention than any other due to its effect on primary production. It is the macronutrient in shortest supply relative to the nutritional requirements of living creatures.
Phosphorus can be present as organic matter either dissolved in water or suspended in it as particulate matter. It may also occur as inorganic compounds released from various minerals, fertilizers or detergents. Lake sediments contain much higher concentrations of phosphorus than the overlying water. The lake bottom becomes a sink for the element because it binds readily to clays and organic material.
September 12, 2006 6:50 AM | Category: Chemicals, Lake