Carbon Dioxide in the Seawater under the Arctic Ice

Abstract

THE oceans act as both sources and sinks for the carbon dioxide in the air. A partial pressure of CO₂ in the water is established which depends on its physical, chemical and biological properties. Carbon dioxide in the surface waters of the Pacific Ocean was measured by Keeling et al.¹, who found high concentrations relative to the atmospheric CO₂ in a broad belt near the equator. At higher latitudes in the Central Pacific Ocean, concentrations were nearly in equilibrium with the atmosphere, or slightly lower. In order to interpret the role of CO₂ in the surface waters of the world's oceans, and its effects on the atmosphere, it is necessary to extend these observations into the polar seas.