ISOTOPE LABELING Meaning and
Definition
-
Isotope labeling, also known as isotopic labeling, is a technique used in various fields of science to study the behavior of molecules and ions within a system. It involves the introduction of isotopes, which are atoms that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, into a compound or substance to track their movements and transformations.
In isotope labeling, a stable or radioactive isotope is substituted for a naturally occurring element in a molecule of interest. By introducing an isotope of a specific element, researchers can distinguish between the labeled and unlabeled molecules and track their movements, reactions, and metabolic pathways.
Isotope labeling is particularly valuable in fields such as biochemistry, environmental science, and medical research. It enables scientists to trace the fate of specific atoms or molecules in living organisms, study metabolic pathways and cellular processes, determine reaction rates, and investigate the cycling of chemical elements in ecosystems.
The technique of isotope labeling has various applications, including the study of protein structure and function, drug metabolism, nutrient cycling, and pollutant transport. It provides valuable insights into the behavior of molecules and how they interact within complex systems, ultimately advancing our understanding of fundamental biological and chemical processes.
Overall, isotope labeling is a powerful tool that allows scientists to unravel the intricate details of molecular behavior by selectively replacing atoms with isotopes, enabling accurate monitoring and analysis of their movement and transformation.
Common Misspellings for ISOTOPE LABELING
- usotope labeling
- jsotope labeling
- ksotope labeling
- osotope labeling
- 9sotope labeling
- 8sotope labeling
- iaotope labeling
- izotope labeling
- ixotope labeling
- idotope labeling
- ieotope labeling
- iwotope labeling
- isitope labeling
- isktope labeling
- isltope labeling
- isptope labeling
- is0tope labeling
- is9tope labeling
- isorope labeling
- isofope labeling
Etymology of ISOTOPE LABELING
The word "isotope" originates from the Greek words "isos" (equal) and "topos" (place), meaning "same place". It was first coined by the British chemist Frederick Soddy in 1913 to describe atoms with the same atomic number but different atomic weights.
The term "labeling" is derived from the verb "label", which means to attach a descriptive or identifying mark or tag to something.
Therefore, the term "isotope labeling" combines these two words to refer to the process of attaching a marker or tag to specific isotopes, allowing for their identification or tracking in various scientific disciplines.
