Stable Isotope Geochemistry

Building from first principals, Hoefs takes the reader through nomenclature, fractionation theory, and analytical technology. The second section provides brief summaries of the current state of knowledge for each isotope system covered. Some of these are fairly brief (zinc gets only 10 lines!) but most include all the information needed to provide a sound basis for tackling up-to-date journal literature. Focus in the third section rests upon numerous case studies and summaries of isotopic variation in natural systems. These range through the entire spectrum of geological systems, from extraterrestrial material to palaeoclimatology and all points in between. Again, these are not tackled with any great depth but all provide abundant referenced material, allowing further investigation without much hassle.

In summary, this is a welcome update of an already indispensable text. Suitable for the vast majority of those interested in this field, from undergraduate students through to more experienced research workers wishing to refresh their knowledge of the ins and outs of stable isotope capabilities. Hoefs provides an excellent introduction to an otherwise fairly impenetrable subject area.