Impact of photochemical degradation of DOC on bacterial respiratory quotient in aquatic ecosystems
Many studies assume a respiratory quotient (RQ = CO2 produced per O2 consumed, by moles) of ~1 to calculate bacterial respiration from measured O2 consumption rates. However, the theoretical value of RQ varies with the elemental composition of the compound being decomposed. Photo-oxidation of DOC results in compounds of oxygen-rich organic acids which, theoretically, should result in elevated RQ.