Masters Theses

Abstract

"A reconnaissance survey of stream sediments using the minus 80 mesh sieve fraction was made at 53 sites throughout the James River basin, Missouri. Sample sites within the 1460 square miles of the basin were chosen at tributary confluences, suspected contamination sources, and known areas of mineralization. Replicates and stream profiles were taken to check for analytical variation and reproducibility of results. Sediment samples were prepared by a hot nitric acid leach method. The sediments were analyzed using an atomic absorption unit to determine Cu, Pb, Zn, and Cd trace metal contents.

Values of selected streams within the basin were statistically evaluated using Student's t-test and analysis of variance methods to examine variations in metal content of stream sediments. The results were compared with direct observations of the stream populations and found compatible. High metal values in the fine fraction of the stream sediments were found all along the flow of Wilson Creek, and near mineralized areas on Pearson Creek, Finley Creek, and Flat Creek. Lead ranged from 10 ppm to 570 ppm. Zinc ranged from 5 ppm to 610 ppm. Copper ranged from 0 to 98 ppm. Cadmium ranged from 0 to 62 ppm. Average values for Wilson Creek were found to be much higher than average values for the rest of the river basin"--Abstract, page 1.

Advisor(s)

Proctor, Paul Dean, 1918-1999

Committee Member(s)

Bolter, Ernst
Rockaway, John D.

Department(s)

Geosciences and Geological and Petroleum Engineering

Degree Name

M.S. in Geology

Sponsor(s)

United States. Office of Water Resources Research
V. H. McNutt Foundation

Comments

This project was partially funded by OWRR [Office of Water Resources Research] Project A-066-Proctor grant received by Dr. Proctor.

Publisher

University of Missouri--Rolla

Publication Date

1973

Pagination

iv, 69 pages

Note about bibliography

Includes bibliographical references (pages 64-66).

Geographic Coverage

James River (Mo.)

Rights

© 1973 William J. Head, All rights reserved.

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

File Type

text

Language

English

Subject Headings

Heavy minerals -- Missouri -- James RiverWater -- Pollution

Thesis Number

T 2913

Print OCLC #

6019991

Electronic OCLC #

911975374

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Thesis Location

 
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