Controls on the oceanic distribution of zinc isotopes: constraints from culturing experiments

Abstract

Stable trace metal isotopes are promising new tracers in paleooceanography. But endeavors to harness their potential require a sound understanding of the processes governing their distribution in the modern ocean. Many of the controlling factors, however, are poorly constrained and await careful reductionist experiments. Among these factors are zinc (Zn) isotope effects during uptake into marine phytoplankton, which are investigated in detail in this dissertation.