First Data about Mercury in Modern Hydrothermal Process in the Ocean, Juan de Fuca Ridge

Abstract

The results of studying Hg in an underwater hydrothermal system in the ocean using the Middle Valley of the Juan de Fuca ridge as an example are presented. A significant part of Hg is accumulated in the basalt fundament (Holes 858F, G), forming anomalously high concentrations (up to 29.30 ppm) in certain parts. The high Hg contents were established in metalliferous sediments (323 ppm) of the sedimentary cover (Hole 858D) and in sulfide deposits (up to 10.30 ppm). In other parts of the section, Hg content is 0.02–0.76 ppm (Holes 858B, D, F), background Hg contents in sediments—0.08–0.28 ppm and in basalts—0.17–0.31 ppm (Holes 855A, C, D).