Carbonate compensation depth , relation

Ben-Yaakov, S., Ruth, E., and Kaplan, I. R. Carbonate compensation depth Relation to carbonate solubility in ocean waters. Science 184, 982-984 (1974). 

There are several other topics that would be equally appropriate to consider in a review of this type. Some of these, such as the record of seawater and the history of the calcium carbonate compensation depth (CCD), are mentioned briefly as they relate to records that are discussed in greater detail. Other topics have been omitted. We hope readers will recognize that the topics covered here are determined not only by the scientific interests of the authors, but also by the practical limits of what can be covered in a single review. 

A sketch of the carbonate content of deep sea sediments as a function of depth. Lighter shades indicate greater CaC03 content in the sediments. Horizontal arrows indicate theoretical relations among the depths of the lysocline (where CaCOs shows visible signs of dissolution), the carbonate compensation depth, CCD (where the CaCOs concentration drops to zero) and the saturation horizon (S =l). 

Atlantic Ocean Nodule abundance in the Atlantic Ocean appears to be more limited than in the Pacific or Indian Oceans, probably as a result of its relatively high sedimentation rates. Another feature which inhibits nodule abundance in the Atlantic is that much of the seafloor is above the calcium carbonate compensation depth (CCD). The areas of the Atlantic where nodules do occur in appreciable amounts are those where sedimentation is inhibited. The deep water basins on either side of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge which are below the CCD and which accumulate only limited sediment contain nodules in reasonable abundance, particularly in the western Atlantic. Similarly, there is a widespread occurrence of nodules and encrustations in the Drake Passage-Scotia Sea area probably due to the strong bottom currents under the Circum-Antarctic current inhibiting sediment deposition in this region. Abundant nodule deposits on the Blake Plateau can also be related to high bottom currents. 

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