isotope hydrology

Isotope hydrology studies the distribution and movement of naturally occurring water isotopes—variants of water molecules with different atomic weights—in the environment. By analyzing these isotopes, scientists can trace water sources, understand groundwater recharge, track water flow patterns, and determine the history and age of water. This information helps in water resource management, detecting contamination, and studying climate change impacts. Essentially, isotope hydrology uses the tiny differences in water molecules to provide detailed insights into how water moves and behaves in nature.