Delta R correction values for the northern Indian Ocean.

Abstract

Apparent marine radiocarbon ages are reported for the northern Indian Ocean region for the pre-nuclear period, based on measurements made in seven mollusk shells collected between 1930 and 1954. The conventional (super 14) C ages of these shells range from 693+ or -44 to 434+ or -51 BP in the Arabian Sea and 511+ or -34 to 408+ or -51 BP in the Bay of Bengal. These ages correspond to mean Delta R correction values of 163+ or -30 yr for the northern Arabian Sea, 11+ or -35 yr for the eastern Bay of Bengal (Andaman Sea) and 32+ or -20 yr for the southern Bay of Bengal. Contrasting reservoir ages for these two basins are most likely due to differences in their thermocline ventilation rates.