| Abstract: | Coloured bog water and an aqueous solution of fulvic acid were exposed to natural sunlight. Up to 67% reduction in colour and 32% reduction in DOC concentration were measured after 12 days exposure. Colour bleaching and reduction in ultraviolet light absorbance were independent of added preservatives. The high molecular weight fraction of dissolved organic matter was most reduced in concentration while substances with low molecular weight increased. The reduction in absorbance (λ = 254 nm) per DOC was most significant for substances with high molecular weight. The final concentration of DOC was highest in samples where microbial activity was suppressed. |
