Ice Core
The IsoLab is a facility specializing in the analysis of light stable isotopes. Our focus has been to use the stable isotopes of hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur to help elucidate paleo and modern-day environments.
Stromatolites
Our core group here at the University of Washington brings together the Departments of Earth and Space Sciences, Atmospheric Sciences, and Biology as well as the interdisciplinary programs: Quanternary Research Center, Astrobiology Program, and Program on Climate Change.
What are light stable isotopes?
Isotopes are elements with varying numbers of neutrons but identical numbers of protons and electrons. Some isotopes
are unstable, or radioactive, with increasing numbers of neutrons. Elements with a relatively low mass are considered light. For example, carbon has a mass of 12
and is considered to be light. Lead, however, has a mass of 207 and would be considered heavy. In the environmental stable isotope community, light isotopes are generally considered to
be hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur.We welcome individuals from all departments and from on or off the University of Washington campus to visit and use our facility. Please see contacts below for immediate information.