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A magnesium correction for the Na-K-Ca chemical geothermometer

January 1, 1978
Graphs and equations have been devised to correct for the adverse effects of magnesium upon the Na-K-Ca geothermometer. Either the graphs or equations can be used to determine temperature corrections when given waters have Na-K-Ca calculated temperatures above 70? C and values of R less than 50, where R = {Mg/(Mg + Ca + K)} x 100 in equivalents. Waters with values of R greater than 50 probably come from relatively cool aquifers with temperatures about equal to the measured spring temperature, irrespective of much higher calculated Na-K-Ca temperatures.
Publication Year 1978
Title A magnesium correction for the Na-K-Ca chemical geothermometer
DOI 10.3133/ofr78986
Authors R.O. Fournier, Robert W. Potter
Publication Type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Series Title Open-File Report
Series Number 78-986
Index ID ofr78986
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
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