So far the emphasis has been on the radioactive isotopes and what they tell us about the timing and nature of processes. We now embark on the topic of stable isotopes and isotope fractionation. We will first learn about how stable (and sometimes unstable) isotope ratios are measured by mass spectrometry. This is important because the isotope geochemist needs to understand the nature of the measurements in order to realize the character and limitations of the data. We then explore the principles, systematics, and mathematics of isotope fractionation.
Readings are listed below the table. Lecture notes are provided by WHOI and link away from OCW.
| SES # | TOPICS | SUMMARIES | SLIDES |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 & 14 | Isotope Measurements | Since you need to understand the limits and character of your data in order to use it effectively, we spend the next two lectures discussing isotope ratio measurements. The tool of choice for these measurements is the mass spectrometer, so we concentrate on the mechanics of how these instruments work. This involves a discussion of the underlying principles of mass spectrometry and a broad survey of the various types of mass spectrometers, ranging from "traditional" stable isotope mass spectrometers through ICPMS and AMS systems. We investigate some of the analytical challenges involved in the various methods. The isotope dilution methodology and mathematics are explored. Then we discuss some basic concepts of data treatment and review error propagation one more time. Finally, we explore how half-lives can be determined using mass spectrometers. | |
| 15 & 16 | Isotope Fractionation Systematics | Here we learn about the underlying physical principles about isotope fractionation, the basic mathematics and calculations, and some of the generalities associated with using stable isotopes as probes of biogeochemical processes. We finish by exploring mass independent isotope fractionation. | |
| 17 | Problem Session 3 | Dealing with the Rayleigh equation. G‐IG seawater δ18O (Emiliani vs. Shackleton) | Problem Set 3 (PDF) |
Readings
Intro to Isotopic Calculations (PDF)
A nice introduction written by John Hayes on isotopic calculations. Courtesy of John Hayes. Used with permission.
Stable Isotopes Review (PDF)
A recent review article from Biogeosciences on using stable isotopes to trace plant carbon and water relations across scales.
Werner, Christiane, H. Schnyder, et al. "Progress and Challenges in Using Stable Isotopes to Trace Plant Carbon and Water Relations Across Scales." Biogeosciences 9 (2012): 3083–111. This work is distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.