Epsilon notation (ε)
Definition
Similar to delta but expressed in parts per ten thousand, used for radiogenic systems where variation is very small. Epsilon Nd and epsilon Hf are the most common forensic applications.
Related terms
- Delta notation (δ)
- A notation expressing the isotope ratio of a sample relative to an international standard in parts per thousand (per mil, ‰). Positive...
- MC-ICP-MS (Multi-Collector Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry)
- An instrument that ionises a liquid or laser-ablated sample in an argon plasma at about 8,000 K and simultaneously collects multiple ion...
- Radiogenic isotope
- An isotope produced by radioactive decay of a parent nuclide over geological time. Its abundance in a rock or mineral increases predictably...
- Stable isotope
- An isotope that does not undergo radioactive decay. Ratios of stable isotopes change only through physical or biological fractionation, such as evaporation...
- TIMS (Thermal Ionisation Mass Spectrometry)
- An instrument that ionises a sample deposited on a metal filament and measures ion beam intensities with Faraday collectors. The gold standard...
Explained in
- Isotope Principles for Forensic ProvenanceSimilar to delta but expressed in parts per ten thousand, used for radiogenic systems where variation is very small. Epsilon Nd and epsilon Hf are the most com...