Radon transfer velocity at the water-air interface

Joash N Ongori1, Robert Lindsay1, Mashinga J Mvelase1

  • 1Department of Physics, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa.

Summary

This study investigates how radon moves from water to air under low-turbulence conditions, such as when collecting water samples for radon measurements. Using a mathematical model and experiments, the researchers found that radon escapes very slowly, with a transfer velocity coefficient of (1.4±0.2)×10(-6) ms(-1). This finding confirms that radon is a reliable tracer in water studies because its escape is minimal under these conditions. The study fills a gap in understanding radon behavior and supports improved measurement protocols.

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