Modelling the long-term dynamics of radionuclides in rivers

Abstract

A model describing the long-term dynamics of radioactive contamination of rivers was developed. The radionuclide activity concentration in river water is assumed to be directly proportional to the content of the radionuclide exchangeable form in the surface layer of soil on the river catchment. The model input parameter values can be determined independently or estimated using results of the short-term observations. The modelled and measured 137 Cs activity concentrations in rivers contaminated as a result of the Chernobyl accident are in good agreement.