Determination of sedimentation rates in Izmir Bay using Pb-210 radionuclide

In this study, using the constant rate of supply model, sedimentation rates of Izmir Bay were calculated and discussed. For this purpose, eight sediment cores were collected from inner part of the bay and sedimentation rates were calculated from vertical distribution of Pb-210. Pb-210 activities were determined indirectly from Po-210 activities. Sedimentation rates ranged from 0.10 to 0.52 cm/year. The highest sedimentation rates were determined in stations close to the Poligon stream. It was concluded that main transporting mechanism for sediments is river and streams in the area. In addition, sediment cores taken from the harbor were mixed due to bioturbation, water circulation and/or other factors.