Stable Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS)

Stable Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) is a technique used to measure the relative amounts of different stable isotopes—forms of elements with varying neutron numbers—in a sample. By analyzing these isotope ratios, scientists can gain insights into processes like climate change, food origin, or environmental conditions. IRMS works by converting a sample into gas, then separating and detecting isotopes based on their mass, providing precise, measurable ratios. This method helps trace natural and anthropogenic impacts on ecosystems, archaeology, and geo-sciences with high accuracy and specificity.