Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Hydrogen Peroxide in Lake Waters

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Abstract
Depth profiles of H2O2 concentration were measured at three stations in Lake Erie [USA, Canada], one in Lake Ontario and in Jacks Lake. Epilimnetic concentrations followed changes in solar radiation suggesting that the formation resulted from photochemical or perhaps photoautotrophic processes. Mid-day H2O2 concentrations of 100-200 nM were observed at all locations. Dark decay of H2O2, determined at several depths at two locations, followed apparent first order kinetics with half lives from 10-22 h. H2O2 may be useful as a tracer for short term mixing processes and as a powerful oxidizing agent can influence metal speciation, degradation of some organic pollutants, as well as the survival and behavior of organisms.