Trace Metals

In this chapter an overview of sampling and analytical techniques for the marine trace metals (and their stable isotope ratios) is given, focusing largely on the six bio-essential transition metals (iron, manganese, copper, nickel, zinc and cobalt). The aim of this chapter is to introduce the reader to the breadth of techniques and methods currently available to study the biogeochemical cycles of trace metals and their isotopes in the ocean. We note that we do not cover all existing and historical techniques as some are no longer used, some remain immature for trace metal studies, and some are just emerging or are still being developed. A more detailed focus on the methods used by the authors is also provided. We anticipate the continuing development and refinement of methods; as with any expanding and developing scientific field, novel strategies and techniques continuously come and go. For further background reading on marine trace metal distribution and key biogeochemical processes in the ocean, the reader is referred throughout the chapter to appropriate overviews, articles and textbooks available online, including the freely available GEOTRACES electronic atlas and data products, as well as the GEOTRACES ‘cookbook’.