Isotopes and the Natural Environment - Paperback

by Paul Alexandre (Author)

Preface

1. Introduction

2. Theory of isotopes

2.1 Nature and formation of isotopes

2.2 Principles of isotopes fractionation

2.3 Radiogenic disintegration

3. Analytical methodology

3.1 Mass spectrometry

3.2 Sample preparation

3.2 Data treatment and interpretation

4. Applications in the natural environment

4.2 The hydrosphere (stable isotopes and the water cycle)

4.3 The biosphere: biology and ecology (kinetic fractionation and living organisms; migration; the food web)

4.4 Atmosphere: climate (stable isotopes and climate changes)

4.5 Human health (diagnosis and study the human body)

Author Biography

Paul Alexandre is an experienced isotope scientist. He trained in France before perfecting his skills as a leading member of the Queen's Facility for Isotope Research in Canada. He has applied isotopes to areas ranging from rainwater and human health to mineral exploration, and he is particularly interested in applications of isotopes in economic geology and mineralogy. Paul is a dedicated professor, who teaches and supervises at Brandon University, Canada.