EARTH: Tracking trace elements and isotopes in the oceans

Last fall, EARTH caught up with geochemistry grad student Jeremy Jacquot as he was about to embark on the first U.S.-led GEOTRACES cruise across the Atlantic, where he and 32 researchers were hoping to measure and track concentrations of various trace elements and isotopes. This month, in "Tracking Trace Elements and Isotopes in the Oceans," we follow up with Jacquot as he details the highs, lows and initial findings from the cruise, which was unfortunately cut short due to a ship malfunction. Not to worry, scientists already have lots to share about how the geochemistry of our oceans is changing. Learn more and read other stories on topics such as how scientists tracking Yellowstone's behavioral changes in real time will keep you safe on your next visit to the national park, how social media is changing the way scientists communicate and how a novel statistical method may help researchers assure our water and energy needs will be met in the future in the May issue. And don't miss the story linking birds and dinosaurs through their fingers.

Source: American Geological Institute