Factors that may affect radon daughter concentrations in Whipple Cave and Goshute Cave, Nevada.
Dep. Geogr., California State Univ., Fresno, CA 93740, USA
NSS BULL., vol. 52, no. 2, pp. 104-109, 1990
Radon daughter measurements taken in Whipple Cave and Goshute Cave in Nevada in the summer of 1984 showed low levels of radioactivity. Working levels ranged from .048 to .073 in Whipple Cave and from .056 to .128 in Goshute Cave. Factors other than meteorological conditions that may contribute to radon concentrations are suggested. The higher average radon concentrations in Goshute Cave may relate to its orientation away from prevailing winds, its small entrance, and its complexity of passageways, all of which may tend to hinder free airflow and reduce ventilation. Airflow within Whipple Cave may be aided by a large entrance oriented toward prevailing winds and a large, straight passageway; both may serve to dilute radon in that cave.