The concentrations of the trace metals MN, FE, Co and Cu are higher at ocean margins than in the deep oceans. These higher concentrations may both act to increase primary production locally and be a source (via horizontal transport) of these metals for the gyre areas of the deep oceans. This research will study the role of sediments as a primary source for these trace elements. The fluxes of metals of from the sediments will be studied both insitu (with special sampling devices) and on board ship using carefully sampled portions of sediment from the same areas. The water column will also be sampled from the dissolved and particulate forms of these elements in order to provide additional information needed for methmatical models describing the distribution of these elements.
