Get To Know About Isotope Analysis 

All elements have isotopes (at least one). Through the analysis of the isotopes a lot of the things are revealed. Isotope testing opens up a wide scope making it an exciting scientific method. 

This method is utilised in many fields to unveil information of the past, study our environment and even for forensic investigations. With the study of isotopes, scientists are able to deduce factual data on our civilisations, monitor pollution patterns and date archaeological finds. 

There are countless opportunities up for grabs because of this method. Yet, we know so little about it. In this blog, we are here to give you more and help you understand all the essential things about isotope analysis in simple terms.

Like any analysis process, isotope analysis also involves steps that feel like detective work. Every element exists in different forms called isotopes. They are atoms of the same element having the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

When it comes to isotopes, there are two primary types — stable and unstable. Some isotopes stay stable, while others slowly decay, making them categorised as unstable. It is with the measurement of the ratio of these isotopes in different materials, scientists gain access to a treasure trove of information.

Information that could be about the past or the present depending on the specimen that is being analysed. In one of the isotope analysis methods, experts are able to determine the age of organic materials. Radiocarbon dating isotope analysis involves use of carbon-14 isotopes to find the results. 

But isotope analysis has more applications. It is a method that has major contributions in modern science, medicine and even criminal investigations.

This scientific method finds its purpose across diverse fields. Here are some of the key applications where they are used — 

Archaeology and Anthropology: 

Have you thought about how scientists can figure out what was the dietary habit of people living thousands of years ago? It is through isotope testing, the experts find the answer.

The bones and teeth of corpses are studied by experts to come to a conclusion. Carbon and nitrogen isotopes found in them are analysed and help scientists reconstruct the diets of people from ancient times.

But that’s not all, study of strontium and oxygen isotopes also give away the information of where someone lived or migrated. One of the famous examples of this type of study was involving Ötzi the Iceman. It is a 5,300-year-old mummy found in the Alps. Through the method of isotope analysis, researchers learned about the mummy’s diet, birthplace and even what he ate before death.

It really is a fascinating procedure.

Environmental and Climate Science 

Environmental isotope analysis is a big thing that helps scientists study climate change and predict future trends.

For example:

• Ice cores have oxygen isotopes that upon their testing reveal past temperature changes.

• Tree rings carry carbon isotopes which when studied helps in tracking of atmospheric composition shifts.

Moreover, isotope analysis is also utilised for the purpose of tracing pollution. The experts can get accurate data about the origin of contaminants and how they spread. 

Other environmental data that this method can gather are ocean acidification, sources of groundwater and deforestation.

Forensic Science

Yes, isotopes have a part to play in solving crimes! Law enforcement agencies analyse isotopes in human hair, nails, and bones to track a person’s geographical history. 

This method is valuable in the identification of missing persons and tracing illegal drug sources. One real-life case that involved isotope analysis was for determining where an unidentified body found in a river came from. 

Investigators got hold of the information with the study of isotopes in the body’s bones. With the data post-analysis, they were able to map the victim’s movements before their death.

Medical and Biological Research

 Isotope analysis is applied in the field of medicine for many reasons. It is  used for studying the process of metabolism. 

Additionally, many disease diagnostic steps also involve this analysis method. It can also be used for monitoring the pharmaceutical drugs movement in the body.

Doctors are known for using stable isotopes as tracers in medical tests. These help in the detection of conditions like digestive disorders and even cancer. 

Geology and Earth Sciences

The study of rocks, fossils and even meteorites happen to involve the method of isotope analysis. Geologists use it to determine the age of Earth’s crust and volcanic activity. 

A great example is the Chicxulub crater, the asteroid impact site linked to the extinction of dinosaurs. Isotope analysis confirmed its age—about 66 million years old, supporting the asteroid extinction theory.

Now that we know where isotope analysis is used, let us learn how experts use this method. How do scientists exactly conduct isotope measurement? Well, of course with advanced instruments that have been manufactured for the detection of even tiniest differences in isotope ratios. Some of the common tools are — 

• Mass Spectrometry (MS): These are designed for analysing gases, water and biological samples.

• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy: It is for the study of isotopic labeling in fields of medicine and biology.

• Laser Spectroscopy: These are tools for the measurement of isotope ratios in real time.

• Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS): These are one of the most sensitive methods. It is primarily applied for radiocarbon dating.

Isotope testing is an extensively utilised procedure that offers a plethora of critical information. Whether it is about the unknown past, understanding the present and predicting the future, this method contributes immensely.