Radioactivity in spring water and surface water of southern Nevada

The concentration was measured for several radionuclides in some springs and surface waters of Southern Nevada. The samples were analyzed for tritium, radon, uranium, thorium and plutonium. Two artificial radionuclides, tritium and plutonium were found to be virtually absent in these springs. This is to be expected if the water is very old, fossil water. Natural radioactivity, such as uranium, radon and thorium isotopes are present in normal amounts. A significant concentrating mechanism appears to be involved at Pahranagat Lake, producing uranium concentrations much greater than is found in the feeder springs.