Stable Isotope Geochemistry

Stable Isotope Geochemistry is an introduction to the use of stable isotopes in the geosciences. For students and scientists alike the book will be a primary source of information with regard to how and where stable isotopes can be used to solve geological problems. It is subdivided into three parts: i) theoretical and experimental principles, ii) fractionation processes of light and heavy elements, iii) the natural variations of geologically important reservoirs. In the last decade, major advances in multicollector-ICP-mass-spectrometry enable the precise determination of a wide range of transition and heavy elements. Progress in analysing the rare isotopes of certain elements allows the distinction between mass-dependent and mass-independent fractionations. These major advances in analytical techniques make an extended new edition necessary. Special emphasis has been given to the growing field of “non-traditional” isotope systems. Many new references have been added, which will enable quick access to recent literature.

Jochen Hoefs has been working in the field of stable isotope geochemistry of the elements hydrogen, lithium, carbon, oxygen and sulfur since 1965. His main scientific interests include the stable isotope geochemistry of the mantle and lower crust, the genesis of basaltic and granitic magmas, water/rock interactions under hydrothermal conditions, the history of the ocean and the atmosphere and the application of stable isotopes to environmental problems. He has published about 150 scientific papers, mostly in international journals.