Chemical studies on inland waters in Tasmania

A simple scheme of major ion variability in inland waters is proposed, and is based on the assumptions (a) that the relative proportions of the major ions (Stoichiometry) are controlled by the relative contributions of the atmosphere and the catchment to the dissolved matter in these waters and (b) that total concentration is controlled by climate. The published literature describing chemical changes in inland waters is explored for evidence in support of this scheme; it is concluded that sufficient examples exist for the acceptance of a normal or usual scheme of seasonal chemical change, though biological and other factors may obscure such changes. A two-part notation describing the major ion chemistry of inland waters is derived and adopted to redescribe the chemistry of Tasmanian Waters. This notation is used to facilitate the investigation of some features of the variability of Tasmanian waters. Evidence is presented to show that climate is by far the most important determinant of variability of concentration, and that climate and geology are the most important factors affecting stoichiometric variability; morphometric factors are less important. Outlines of models describing the chemical change in three waters are derived. These describe the main factures of the effects of (a) flow regime (b) flow rate and (c) sediments on the chemistry of these waters