Distribution in ocean The niobium vertical profile
has a slight depletion near the surface and a subsurface maximum indicating that
it has some nutrient-like properties. The deep portion is relatively
constant (data).
Speciation
Niobium is believed to be present in the +V oxidation state as Nb(OH)50
and Nb(OH)6-.
Analysis
Niobium is determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry after
preconcentration.