FLUORIDE DISTRIBUTION IN THE JORDAN GULF OF AQABA (RED-SEA)

In order to evaluate the magnitude and effect of phosphate (fluorapatite) rock particles on the distribution of fluoride in the Jordanian section of the Gulf of Aqaba, sea water and sediment samples were collected from six stations north and south of Aqaba Port. The fluoride concentrations of the water and sediments were determined, together with the concentrations of calcium, calcium carbonate, total phosphorus, magnesium and organic matter in the sediments. Normal fluoride concentrations were found in the sea water samples, whereas abnormally high values were found in the phosphate-polluted sediments. These findings and the correlations between fluoride concentrations and those of other measured parameters are discussed.