Modelling solute transport through an arid zone ephemeral lake system: Joint use of geochemical and hydrological techniques

Abstract

In an ephemeral, interconnected lake system in Australia's arid zone, where data traditionally required for water balance studies is approximate at best, geochemical based modes are being developed to assist in the understanding of system-level salt transport and salinity dynamics. Previous work based on gross salt and hydrological balances in the area has identified that salt loading via inflow and evapoconcentration over time does not sufficiently explain the observed variability in lake salinity, noted on both spatial and temporal scales. Lakes become more saline with increasing distance downstream during both the filling and post flow phases. It is postulated here that lake-bed interstit..