Transformation of organic substances in the conjugate series of surface waters of North Karelia

In this study, compositions of organic matter were investigated in the conjugate series of natural waters, including that from soil water, wetlands, streams, and lakes. In determinations of compositions of aliphatic and benzoic acids and humic substances, humic substances comprised the bulk of dissolved organic carbon, with 28% in lake waters and 57% in waters of wetlands and a weighted average molecular mass of 1 kDa. Aliphatic and benzoic acids comprised ≤ 2% of the total carbon content of water-soluble organic compounds. Transformations of dissolved organic matter occurred in a series of surveyed waters. Specifically, compositions and specific characteristics are dynamic, and increases in the fraction with a molecular weight of < 1 kDa were associated with photo- and bio-degradation of macromolecular organic compounds.