Isotopes—Terminology, Definitions and Properties

Abstract

AbstractThe intention of this chapter is to give insight into the properties and peculiarities of the stable isotopes of the bioelements. Following an overview about the terminology and ʻtechnical jargonʼ used in stable isotope sciences, methods to calculate and express isotopic abundances are presented. Subsequently, a short description of the physicochemical basis of equilibrium and kinetic (mass-dependent) isotope effects (EIEs and KIEs) as origin of isotope fractionation in chemical and biological systems is given. Further, measures for calculation and presentation of isotope fractionation are introduced and the corresponding properties of these quantities are critically discussed. Finally, examples for equilibrium and kinetic isotope fractionation in biochemical reactions are presented in more details and subsequent effects and consequences including the relationship between EIEs and KIEs are reviewed.