Stable isotopic characterization of precipitation, soil water and groundwater in Taihang Mountain, north China

摘要

The stable isotopic compositions (18O, 2H) of water samples were used to investigate the characteristics of precipitation, soil water and groundwater in Taihang Mountain, north China. Soil water samples from profiles at depths of 10, 20, 30, 50, 70, 90, and 110 cm were taken at two slopes covered by robinia and grass in an experimental catchment The slope and intercept of the local meteoric water line were both lower than the global meteoric water line (GMWL), with mean 818O of-8.11 ± 2.34%o. The effect of vegetation on isotopic composition of soil water in this region was weak and the evaporation effect extended below 110 cm in depth,. The local ground-water aquifer is recharged by several heavy rain events with light isotopic composition as explained by the piston model. The relationship between precipitation, vertical soil water profiles, and groundwater is described conceptually in association with isotope profiles from two slopes,. The results will provide valuable insights for further research on mountain hydrology using the stable isotope method.