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701-1333-00L 3 Credits MSC D-USYS
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Isotopes and Biomarkers in Biogeochemistry Laboratory

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Rolf Kipfer, Prof. Dr. Carsten Schubert
Number of participants limited to 10 General safety regulations for this course: -Whenever possible the distance rules have to be respected -All students have to wear masks throughout the course (keep reserve masks ready) -The installation and activation of the Swiss Covid-App is highly encouraged -Students showing any COVID-19 symptoms are not allowed to take part in the sampling and have to inform the course responsible
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:34:14

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

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
ungraded semester performance

Registration & Places

Max Places
10
Signup Start
14.09.2020
Signup End
17.09.2020

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
practical/laboratory course Isotopes and Biomarkers in Biogeochemistry Laboratory
1st half of the semester. Sampling takes place at Rotsee near Luzern. Practical Lab work takes place at EAWAG Kastanienbaum/Duebendorf (room on appointment)
  • Thu 08:00-18:00 (EAW - EAWAG)
4 h weekly

Offered In