Distribution and sedimentation of radionuclides in the Barents Sea

Analysis of sediment samples for cesium-137 from a wide range of positions has demonstrated an uneven distribution. The pathways and the possible origin of the radionuclide are discussed. The importance of sedimentation processes for the distribution pattern is demonstrated. The mean values of the upper centimetre of the bottom sediment are between non-detectable and 8 Bq · kg "1 (dry). ? 1997 International Council for the Exploration of the Sea