The use of isotopic analysis on bones: dating, environmental analysis & migration
Different isotopes on bone samples may be measured, depending on the scope of the research, and which questions the researcher is seeking to answer.
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Assumptions for U-Th Dating: Open vs. Closed Systems
The most optimal samples for accurate U-Th dating are those that exist in closed systems, including speleothems and corals. In some cases, bones and lake sediments may also be used, but the state of your samples should be carefully considered prior to planning your analysis and interpreting U-Th dating results.
What is Uranium-Thorium Dating?
U-Th dating is an analytical method used to date calcium carbonate (CaCO3) bearing samples, including cave deposits/speleothems, CaCO3 rock, corals, shells and (in some cases) bones.
Sr-Nd Isotopes for Weathering Studies
Continental weathering is an important part of the global carbon cycle. The measurements of strontium and neodymium isotopes have been especially important in this research domain.
Studying past climates using stable isotopes
The study of past climates (paleoclimatology) offers an opportunity to improve the predictability of future climate change. The stable isotopes of boron (δ11B) and oxygen (δ18O) are two important variables used to reconstruct climate in a variety of natural archives.
Tracing the diet of herbivores and omnivores through isotopic analysis
Understanding the movement of herbivores across a landscape and ecological dynamics through time is important for current conservation and ecosystem management, while providing valuable insights into evolution and adaptation. Documented historical evidence in the relationship between organisms and their surrounding vegetation is generally limited and thus isotopic analysis of fossils can provide valuable insights into this important area of research.
Isobar’s Lead Isotopes Webinar
Register here to view Isobar Science’s free webinar on Lead Isotopes and Applications.
Live Webinar: March 24, 2021
Speakers: Dr. Maren Pauly and Dr. Arash Sharifi
U-Th Dating vs Radiocarbon Dating
The analysis of the uranium-thorium (U-Th) decay chain can be used to date a variety of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) bearing samples, including cave deposits (e.g. speleothems), calcium carbonate rock, corals, shells and (in some cases) bones. This method can be used to date samples existing from present day until 500,000 calendar years before present.
Isobar’s Geochemistry of Strontium Isotopes Webinar
Register here to view Isobar Science’s free webinar on Strontium Isotopes available on demand.
Live Webinar: February 17, 2021
Speaker: Dr. Arash Sharifi, VP of Lab Operations at Isobar Science
Isobar’s U-Th Dating Webinar
Register to watch Isobar’s U-Th Dating Webinar on-demand.
Live Webinar: January 27, 2021
Speaker: Dr. Maren Pauly, Beta Analytic and Isobar Science Account Manager