isotopforholdsmasspektrometri

Isotopforholdsmasspektrometri, often abbreviated as IRMS, is a scientific technique used to measure the relative abundance of isotopes in a sample. This is achieved by ionizing the sample and then separating the ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio using a magnetic or electric field. The relative intensities of the ion beams are then detected and recorded, providing the isotopic ratios.

The precision of IRMS is exceptionally high, allowing for the detection of very small differences in isotopic composition. This sensitivity is crucial for various applications. For example, in geochemistry and geology, IRMS is used to study the origin and history of rocks and minerals, as well as to reconstruct past climates by analyzing the isotopic ratios of elements like oxygen and hydrogen in ice cores and sediments.

In environmental science, IRMS can trace the sources and pathways of pollutants, helping to understand their environmental fate. Forensic science utilizes IRMS to authenticate the origin of materials such as drugs, explosives, and food products, providing evidence for investigations. Biology and medicine employ IRMS to study metabolic pathways, nutrient uptake, and the origins of biomolecules. The technique is also vital in archaeology for dating artifacts and understanding ancient diets.