Chemistry of chromium in lakes

The inputs of industrial wastes have changed the levels and forms of chromium in many lakes, and there is growing concern about the accumulation of Cr(VI), a known carcinogen, in drinking water supplies. This report provides a critical review of the effects of speciation, transformations, and solubility on the cycling of chromium in lacustrine environments. Unique features of chromium dynamics associated with the decoupling of redox-driven chromium cycle from those of iron and manganese at the sediment–water and air–water interfaces are highlighted. Reductive precipitation is important in the immobilization of pollutant chromium in sediments. Photooxidative dissolution of Cr(III) especially at the air–water interface is identified as a key area for further research. The available database is inadequate for establishing any linkages between the chromium and biological cycles in lakes.