Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the use of the unit [mm a-1] in the context of recession rates or trends, particularly in hydrology. Participants explore the meaning and appropriateness of this unit compared to the more commonly used [mm yr-1].
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant questions the use of [mm a-1], suggesting it might mean mm per annum, but wonders why [mm yr-1] isn't used instead.
- Another participant asks for context to determine if the initial assumption fits, indicating uncertainty about the unit's application.
- A third participant notes that [mm a-1] is used in hydrology, specifically regarding aquifer storage changes, and expresses skepticism about the smallness of the mm per year assumption given significant fluctuations in aquifer levels.
- One participant speculates whether [a] could refer to area, but finds that interpretation unconvincing.
- A different participant suggests that [mm] might not refer to millimeters, proposing it could be a typo for mM (milliMolar), though they also find this unlikely in the given context.
- A participant shares links to external sources that use the unit [mm a-1], indicating that it is commonly used in literature, particularly in relation to "isobases."
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express various interpretations of the unit [mm a-1] and its context, with no consensus reached on its meaning or appropriateness. Multiple competing views remain regarding its usage and implications.
Contextual Notes
There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the unit's meaning, its application in specific contexts, and the potential for typographical errors. The discussion does not resolve these uncertainties.