| Unit name | Stable Isotopes in Earth System Science |
|---|---|
| Unit code | EASCM0020 |
| Credit points | 10 |
| Level of study | M/7 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1B (weeks 7 - 12) |
| Unit director | Dr. Robinson |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | School of Earth Sciences |
| Faculty | Faculty of Science |
This unit provides an introduction to the principles and application of stable isotopes in Earth system science. The unit begins with an overview of the history of stable isotope research and an introduction to stable isotope notation, reference scales and materials. The range of d variations in nature is discussed for hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur isotopes, followed by an in-depth look at the nature of processes that partition stable isotopes between different materials and reservoirs in the Earth system. Topics to be discussed include kinetic and equilibrium isotope effects, Rayleigh-type processes in open and closed systems, stable isotope thermometry, and the use of isotopes to study mass balance and mixing in nature.
