Studies of seasonal and interannual variations of rates of benthic processes and the cycling of material across the sediment-water interface and their relationship to particle fluxes are proposed. The research seeks to determine the influence of seasonal changes in the input of particulate matter to the sea floor on sediment reactions, fluxes of dissolved components across the interface, biological activity as it affects sediments, and the preservation of CaCO3 in the sediments. In this fashion we seek to evaluate the influence of events in the surface ocean upon benthic rates and processes. The site chosen, off Bermuda, is characterized by conditions found in many areas of the ocean making the conclusions drawn applicable beyond the immediate study area. Research on the factors governing the preservation of CaC03 in sediments on a regional scale is also proposed. These studies are focussed upon evaluating the effects on bottom water saturation state and organic matter metabolism upon rates and the extent of post-deposition dissolution of CaC03. The studies would be carried out on a transect of the east coast of the United States.
