701-1333-00L Isotopic and Organic Tracers Laboratory
Semester | Autumn Semester 2016 |
Lecturers | R. Kipfer, S. Ladd |
Periodicity | yearly recurring course |
Language of instruction | English |
Abstract | This course will illustrate how different tracers and isotopes are used in natural systems. Here especially the processes (transformation, timescales) that take place and can be revealed by tracers/isotopes will be demonstrated but also flux rates will be calculated using different tracers. |
Objective | Students know how to use tracers/isotopes to investigate/understand ecosystems They will understand the methods and analytical devices related to tracer/isotope work Have a feeling for timescales on which natural processes occur Students will be able to apply different sampling techniques in aquatic sciences |
Content | Basics: O,H isotopes as tracers for mixing in aquatic systems Carbon isotopes as tracer for methane oxidation 210Pb, 137Cs as a tracer for sedimentation rate/mixing SF6, Neon, He as tracers for exchange processes at the air/water interface Case assessment: Sampling of a Swiss lake (Rotsee) Sampling techniques for different elements Sample preparation for different techniques Measurements at isotope mass spectrometer/gamma counter Interpretation of results from the special sampling campaign and in a broader context |