Isotopic tracer

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-006251",
  "term": "Isotopic tracer",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "A substance containing an atom that has been replaced by one of its isotopes, either stable or radioactive, which is then introduced into a system to follow the course of a chemical reaction, physical process, or biological pathway. The unique properties of the isotope allow its detection and quantification, providing insights into mechanisms and dynamics. Common examples include using carbon-14 to study metabolic pathways.",
  "subject": "Analytical Chemistry",
  "see_also": [
    "tracer"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 1994, 66, 2513. 'Nomenclature for radioanalytical chemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 1994)' on page 2526 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199466122513)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/isotopic-tracer/"
}