Special Feature: Mercury Isotopes: Probing Global and Regional Cycling and Transformation of Mercury in the Biosphere

Highlights on research using mercury isotopes presented at the ICMGP-2015 Jeju, Korea

Recent advances in analytical instrumentation have facilitated using the stable isotope ratios of mercury (Hg) in examination of Hg fate, transport and bioaccumulation. The discovery of both mass dependent (MDF) and mass independent fractionation (MIF), and improved understanding of the factors surrounding mercury isotope fractionation in the environment, has allowed for the more widespread application and interpretation of Hg isotope ratios beyond that of identifying local source signals. Recent studies have examined complex environmental processes that are difficult to constrain such as aquatic photochemical reduction and demethylation, re-emission from lakes, snow surfaces, and the surface ocean, and from vegetation, and bioaccumulation pathways. Overall, studies using Hg isotopes continue to advance our understanding and play a vital role in fundamental Hg research, confirming or challenging current paradigms. This Special Feature brings together some of the highlights on recent studies and advances in mercury isotopes and their uses from ICMGP in June 2015 in Jeju, Korea and elsewhere.

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