Late-Wisconsin paleohydrology of the West-Central Amargosa Desert, Nevada, U.S.A.
Studies of isotopes in groundwater using 14C, 2H (deuterium) and 18O have provided significant insight into the paleoclimate of middle and late Wisconsin age in a typical arid environment of southern Nevada, the west-central Amargosa Desert. Evidence indicates that recharge probably was through infiltration of runoff in paleostream channels and that this runoff was important only from ∼ 17,000 to ∼ 10,000 yr. B.P. Mean annual temperature at 17,000 yr. B.P. was ∼ 8°C less than present mean annual temperature; some summer moisture was effective in recharge. Winter (October–May) temperature at ∼ 10,000 yr. B.P. was ∼ 1°C less than present; summer moisture did not contribute to recharge.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 1986 |
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Title | Late-Wisconsin paleohydrology of the West-Central Amargosa Desert, Nevada, U.S.A. |
DOI | 10.1016/0168-9622(86)90019-9 |
Authors | H. C. Claassen |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Chemical Geology: Isotope Geoscience Section |
Index ID | 70015712 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |