Publication Citation

USGS Series Professional Paper
Report Number 1589
Title Transport, behavior, and fate of volatile organic compounds in streams
Edition -
Language ENGLISH
Author(s) Rathbun, R. E.
Year 1998
Originating office
USGS Library Call Number (200) B no.1589
Physical description 151 p.
ISBN

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Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are compounds with chemical and physical properties that allow the compounds to move freely between the water and air phases of the environment. VOCs are widespread in the environment because of this mobility. Many VOCs have properties making them suspected or known hazards to the health of humans and aquatic organisms. Consequently, understanding the processes affecting the concentration and distribution VOCs in the environment is necessary. The U.S. Geological Survey selected 55 VOCs for study. This report reviews the characteristics of the various process that could affect the transport, behavior, and fate of these VOCs in streams.