UROP Project

Using Radon as a Geochemical Tracer to Quantify Discrete Flows in Karst Conduits

Geology, Groundwater, Chemistry
Research Mentor: Dr. Ming Ye, he/him
Department, College, Affiliation: Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: mye@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Gavin Wills he/him
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: gjw24@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Geology, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes
Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable

Project Description

The goal of this project will be to develop an executable method for estimating groundwater input from karst (meaning characteristic of dissolution) aquifer rock (matrix) into submerged caves (conduits). To accomplish this goal, radon concentration, measured at karst windows, will be assessed for the ability to accurately quantify matrix discharge into a conduit. By nature, karst aquifers can be heterogenous regarding both structure and water transport. Due to their heterogeneity, researchers have had limited success accurately quantifying how the flow of groundwater changes across the matrix/conduit boundary. Current estimation methods of matrix discharge rates use differences between measured flow volumes at different locations. These estimations can contain large sources of error which require large distances to mitigate. Previous studies have shown success with using radon to quantify diffuse flows through sediments. This study will aim to adapt riverine theory to karst conduits.
This project will consist of two major parts. First, we will review literature to formulate a justifiable, executable plan which then allows us to transition into data collection. Following field data collection, we will interpret our results into a scientifically proven report.

Research Tasks: Literature review
Data collection/analysis
Field work

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Algebra(required)
Basic calculus(recommended)
Basic knowledge of hydrogeology(recommended)
Ability to operate in the field (recommended)

Mentoring Philosophy

My primary goal is making the learning environment a comfortable place to make mistakes. Mistakes are expected and will ultimately lead to greater success as each mistake fosters further learning. I believe that meeting frequently is key to facilitating learning and inquiry. Additionally, a mentoring relationship should be based in mutual respect where both people are willing to learn from the other. I aim to promote critical thinking, inquiry, and accountability by granting the mentee independence and ownership of their work.

Additional Information


Link to Publications


Return to Project Database