Critical evaluation of the use and analysis of stable isotopes

In this paper the methodology of isotopic analysis is discussed. In the first instance because a choice of analytical methods often conditions the success of research carried out with stable isotopes. The methodology of use is treated in two different chapters according to their resting or not on measurements of isotope effects. In the second case, stable isotopes are specially useful for isotope dilution analysis, studies of transport phenomena, medical diagnoses. Advantages and drawbacks of their use with respect to that of radioactive isotopes are described and examples are given. Usage of isotope effects is a specificity of stable isotope work. Methods of measuring equilibrium and kinetic effects are explained. A discussion is given of tenets of applications in research in pharmacology, geochemical processes, and of kinetic effects in studies of reaction mechanisms, especially in biology. Utilisations of nuclear properties, particularly in medicine, are mentioned. This report does not cover techniques of isotope separation, preparation of labeled compounds, uses of isotopes in dating methods or in nuclear industries.