Saturday, October 29, 2011
Hall 1-2 (San Jose Convention Center)
Carbon Dioxide has the potential to further accelerate the natural weathering process of soil. Areas of Mammoth Mountain have been negatively affected by the incidental leakage of carbon dioxide from natural underground deposits formed by volcanic activity as apparent in the dead tree zone near Horseshoe Lake. Researchers from recent years have studied the effects of carbon dioxide on soil as it creates carbonic species that can further acidify ground water and alter geochemistry by causing dissolution of silicates and other minerals in water. Further research is necessary in order to better assess the direct and indirect effects of CO2 on soil geochemistry and water quality. This research will involve several methods in order to analyze the changes in soil caused by CO2 in comparison to controlled samples. We are conducting column studies to mimic conditions in the field where CO2-saturated water is aiding in the weathering of the soils from Mammoth Mountain. We have also conducted detailed soil characterization of samples of soils from the live and dead tree areas. The soil profile studies include the determination of organic nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon content as well as particle size distribution, pore volume, and surface areas. Preliminary results indicate a relationship with weathered soils and decreased particle diameter. This research will provide us with the understanding necessary to undertake massive carbon sequestration projects in aim of preventing carbon dioxide from further accelerating the greenhouse effect in our atmosphere.