Evidence of distinct contaminant transport patterns in rivers using tracer tests and a multiple domain retention model

► Tracer data are analyzed with a multi-domain general RTD solute transport model. ► Model parameters reveal distinct retention patterns in three different streams. ► Mixed linear-log scale analysis shows inadequacy of a single exponential RTD. ► An additional storage component is required to represent long-term retention. ► A power-law RTD can be suitable for streams with significant hyporheic retention.