Measurement of copper and zinc in San Diego Bay by automated anodic stripping voltammetry

Cu and Zn values were measured in San Diego Bay by anodic stripping voltammetry with a specially built, automated instrument. During 1975--1977, trace metal surveys were conducted in the bay from a small vessel. Samples were collected and analyzed aboard the craft while under way. Cu and Zn concentrations were less than 0.1 and 0.6 ..mu..g/L, respectively, at the mouth of the bay and increased toward the center of the bay to approximately 2.5 and 2.9 ..mu..g/L, respectively. Also, synoptic measurements made at a stationary pier location showed that Cu and Zn concentrations coincided precisely but inversely with tidal cycles. Cu and Zn measurements made by automated anodic stripping voltammetry were compared to measurements made by extraction on Chelex 100 followed by analysis by flame atomization atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The two methods produced values that were indistinguishable within experimental error.