Theory and Application of Tracers

Examines the use of isotopes in solving research problems in the biological and Earth sciences, demonstrating that the isotope techniques may be applied to a wide range of disciplines and problem areas. The book covers fundamental methods for the use of isotopes in environmental biology, plant physiology, marine chemistry, soil science, isotope geochemistry and related disciplines. It outlines many elements and techniques, presents examples and gives extensive literature references. It also emphasizes current applications. This guidebook describes: the use of isotopes in ecological studies; the use of isotypes in global change studies; modelling of isotope flows for studying biological system processes; applications to research in ecology, plant physiology, soil science, biogeochemistry and global change; techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometry and autoradiography; and safety and laboratory procedures.