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Biogeochemical Cycles of Carbon and SulfurThe elements carbon (C) and sulfur (S) interact with each other across a network of elemental reservoirs that are interconnected by an array of physical, chemical and biological processes. These networks are termed the biogeochemical C and S cycles. The compounds of C are highly important, not only as organic matter, but also as atmospheric greenhouse gases, pH buffers in seawater, oxidation-reduction buffers virtually everywhere, and key magmatic constituents affecting plutonism and volcanism. The element S assumes important roles as an oxidation-reduction partner with C and Fe in biological systems, as a key constituent in magmas and volcanic gases, and as a major influence upon pH in certain environments. This presentation describes the modern biogeochemical C and S cycles. Measurements are described whereby stable isotopes can help to infer the nature and quantitative significance of biological and geological processes involved in the C and S cycles. This lecture also summarizes the geological and climatologic aspects of the ancient C and S cycles, as well as the planetary and extraterrestrial processes that influenced their evolution over millions to billions of years.
Document ID
20030001107
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
DesMarais, David J.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
DeVincenzi, D.
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
June 19, 2002
Subject Category
Chemistry And Materials (General)
Meeting Information
Meeting: GeoBiology Summer 2002 Field Course
Location: Catalina Island, CA
Country: United States
Start Date: July 19, 2002
End Date: July 27, 2002
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 344-50-92-02
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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