Selected Physical and chemical factors in a limestone strip-mine pond

Physical and chemical factors were measured in the Marquette Quarry strip-mine pond to determine the degree of homogeneity or heterogeneity. Water temperature, air temperature, light intensity, light penetration, turbidity, ice thickness, snow depth, water level, precipitation, pH, carbon dioxide, dissolved oxygen, bicarbonate alkalinity, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, total hardness, residual hardness, dissolved solids and conductivity were measured at one meter intervals in one, two and three meter water columns every two weeks throughout 1973. Statistical analysis of variance analyses indicated significant heterogeneity for nearly all factors. Stepwise multiple regression analyses provided an objective analysis of causation, confirmed established scientific principles and allowed prediction. Physical and chemical factors in the Marquette Quarry strip-mine pond are greatly influenced by pond morphometry, surrounding terrain, time, the limestone substrate and the algal mat present.