Classification of Dissolved Organic Carbon

Abstract

This chapter discusses the classification scheme used in this book to describe the nature of dissolved organic carbon. The classification is based on adsorption and ion-exchange chromatography and definitions of classes of organic compounds that constitute dissolved organic carbon. The chapter is divided into three sections: the histogram of dissolved organic carbon, humic and hydrophilic substances, and specific dissolved organic compounds. Chapter 1 discussed the amount of dissolved organic carbon in different waters, and how it varies with climate and season. This chapter asks the question, “Now that the amount of DOC is known, how can we classify and identify it?”