Phosphate Chemistry in Lake Sediments

The amounts and forms of inorganic and organic phosphate (P) in lake sediments are discussed in relation to sediment composition and properties. The ability of noncalcareous and calcareous sediments to sorb and desorb added P in the laboratory and in the lake environment is interpreted in terms of the amounts and reactivities of sediment components involved in the sorption of P; emphasis is placed on the role of an Fe‐rich gel complex. Factors controlling the chemical mobility and biological availability of sediment inorganic and organic P are considered. Whether sediments act as a P source or sink is determined by sediment composition and limnological conditions. The factors involved in the interchange of P between the sediment interstitial water and the overlying water column are reviewed. The role of P in lake eutrophication is discussed briefly.