Neutron activation analysis investigation of the composition and geochemical peculiarities of Lake Baikal bottom sediments
Abstract
Concentrations of 18 trace elements were determined in 40 samples of bottom sediments of Lake Baikal by instrumental neutron activation analysis. The absence of anthropogenic pollution of sediments by minor elements was found. The main geochemical peculiarities of Lake Baikal bottom sediments are enrichment by light rare earth elements (REEs) and a deficit of caesium and tantalum. The distribution of REEs in Lake Baikal bottom sediments is of a specific type that is intermediate between riverine and sea types.