Hydrochemical characteristics and recharge sources of Lake Nuoertu in the Badain Jaran Desert

Lake Nuoertu, one of the largest and deepest lakes in the Badain Jaran Desert, exhibits significant annual and seasonal variations in its physical and chemical characteristics, unlike groundwater. The lake's hydrochemical composition is consistently Na-Cl-CO3-(SO4), indicating strong evaporation in the region. Stable isotope analysis reveals that groundwater serves as the primary recharge source for Lake Nuoertu, with evidence suggesting a mixed origin of modern and older water (pre-1952). Tritium dating of tufa springs around the lake estimates their age at 75–80 years, highlighting the complex recharge dynamics. The study utilized ion concentrations, total dissolved solids, stable isotopes, and tritium analysis to unravel these processes.

Wu, Y., Wang, N., Zhao, L., Zhang, Z., Chen, L., Lu, Y., Lü, X., & Chang, J. (2014). Hydrochemical characteristics and recharge sources of Lake Nuoertu in the Badain Jaran Desert. Chinese Science Bulletin, 59(9), 886–895. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11434-013-0102-8