Catchment concentration-discharge relationships across temporal scales: A review

Processes that drive variability in catchment solute sourcing, transformation, and transport can be investigated using concentration-discharge (C-Q) relationships. These relationships reflect catchment and in-stream processes operating across nested temporal scales, incorporating both short and long-term patterns. Scientists can therefore leverage catchment-scale C-Q datasets to identify and distinguish among the underlying meteorological, biological, and geological processes that drive solute export patterns from catchments and influence the shape of their respective C-Q relationships. We have synthesized current knowledge regarding the influence of biological, geological, and meteorological processes on C-Q patterns for various solute types across diel to decadal time scales. We identify cross-scale linkages and tools researchers can use to explore these interactions across time scales. Finally, we identify knowledge gaps in our understanding of C-Q temporal dynamics as reflections of catchment and in-stream processes. We also lay the foundation for developing an integrated approach to investigate cross-scale linkages in the temporal dynamics of C-Q relationships, reflecting catchment biogeochemical processes and the effects of environmental change on water quality.This article is categorized under:Science of Water > Hydrological ProcessesScience of Water > Water QualityScience of Water > Water and Environmental Change