The use of stable isotopes in soil science: Low atomic number elements

International audienceIn this chapter, we focus on low atomic mass stable isotopes that are widely used in soil and environmental studies. These include carbon (C), nitrogen (N), oxygen (O), and sulfur (S).We elucidate how such stable isotopes are used to infer processes, estimate mean residence time of an element in an environmental compartment, and identify sources or relative contribution to a pool. In addition, we describe the basis of the most widespread analytical methods for isotope analyses and report relevant technical advances, which are expected to provide unique insight into biogeochemistry of key elements of life in the near future