VI-241 



particles, thus affecting the sedimentation of Inorganic 

 phases (oxides, clays, silica). 



(3) The biological and chemical transformations occurring 

 In polluted and unpolluted sediments should be determined 

 with particular reference to nutrients aid trace elements. 

 These studies should Include considerations of concentration 

 gradients, movement of water at the sediment Interface, eddy 

 diffusion, and the release of gas on the rates of transport 

 from sediments to the water column. Also included should be 

 the effects of changes from oxidizing to reducing conditions 

 and vice versa. 



(4) Adequate procedures must be developed for distinguishing 

 among Inorganic particles, living organisms, and deal organic 

 matter, both In the water column and In the sediments. 



Nutrient Chemistry and Biochemical Changes 



(1) The fluxes of nitrogen and phosphorus In all phases of 

 the cycles affecting the marine environment should be 

 explored. The study should not overlook the fluxes due to 

 rooted benthic plants, birds, and humans. 



(2) An understanding should be developed of the amount and 

 character of dissolved and particulate organic matter In 

 the ocean. Its origin. Including the contributions from 



