Fluxo de silício (SI), ferro (FE) e alumínio (Al) na desembocadura norte do Rio Amazonas em diferentes períodos sazonais e suas contribuições para o ensino

Abstract

The Amazon River, with its continental dimensions, presents a unique composition of its waters. Seeking to better understand the composition of the water of the world's largest river, this research aimed to determine the water discharge or flow rate, as well as the flux of the elements Silicon (Si), Iron (Fe), and Aluminum (Al) influenced by seasonality (Amazonian summer and winter) in the northern channel of the lower Amazon River, and the contribution of these river elements to the ocean. Water samples for Fe, Si, and Al analysis were collected from the lower Amazon River in the northern channel between the city of Macapá in the state of Amapá and Marajó Island using analytical techniques from the American Public Health Association (APHA). For the analysis of Fe, Si, and Al, a combination of Ion Chromatography and Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy equipment was used. The results showed a significant difference in the amount of water the Amazon River sends to the Atlantic Ocean. This is due to the rainy season or Amazonian winter, which occurs in the first half of the year, compared to the second half, a period of less rain and warmer temperatures, or the Amazonian summer. Among the elements analyzed, silicon showed the highest concentration, surpassing iron and aluminum. This is likely due to the soil formation in the Amazon region.