Formulation of distribution coefficients

Many attempts to model trace element abmdance variations in natural systems have employed the so-called Berthelot-Nernst distribution coefficient or distribution coefficients following the Henderson and Kracek treatment (see review of Mclntire, I963). Both Mclntire (1963) and Banno and Matsui (1973) have previously discussed the relative advantages and disadvantages of these distribution coefficients and reference is made to these works for additional discussion. 

For the distribution of a trace element i between a solid and a liquid phase, the Berthelot-Nernst distribution coefficient (D ) 

An alternative form of distribution coefficient (Henderson and Kracek Formula) which has been comparatively little used in geochemistry, introduces the concept of carrier elements which can be thoiight of as the major elements for which the trace element 

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