# isotopic

/ˌaɪsəˈtɑpɪk/ (US) · /ˌaɪsətˈɒpɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/isotopic
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

relating to isotopes — different forms of the same element that have a different weight. Scientists use this idea to study the age, origin, or makeup of materials.

For teachers: relating to or involving isotopes, atoms of the same element with different neutron numbers and thus different atomic masses. Often describes composition, labelling, or measurement techniques that distinguish such variants.

## Examples

- Scientists use isotopic tests to check the age of bones.
- The lab runs isotopic analysis on the water sample to find where the pollution comes from.
- By comparing isotopic ratios in ice cores, researchers reconstruct past temperatures and trace how atmospheric circulation has shifted over thousands of years.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies.

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