Raman spectroscopy of gaseous inclusions in EDML ice core: First results - Microbubbles

Abstract

Measurements of N 2/O 2 ratios inside individual air bubbles at various depths in the EDML (Antarctic) ice core are presented here. The small bubbles (diameter less than ∼200 μm) in deeper ice are significantly enriched in O 2 compared to the larger bubbles. The N 2/O 2 ratios show a systematic dependence on bubble size which is not the case for bubbles in shallower ice. This is interpreted as an effect of pressure relaxation during storage of the cores.