Carbon Isotopes in Magmatic Systems: Measurements, Interpretations, and the Carbon Isotopic Signature of the Earth’s Mantle

Carbon isotopes in magmatic systems serve as powerful tracers for understanding magma evolution, mantle processes, the deep carbon cycle, and the origin of Earth’s carbon. This review provides a comprehensive overview of carbon isotope measurements and behavior in magmatic systems, highlighting rece...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Yves Moussallam
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-07-01
Series:Geosciences
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3263/15/7/266
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Summary:Carbon isotopes in magmatic systems serve as powerful tracers for understanding magma evolution, mantle processes, the deep carbon cycle, and the origin of Earth’s carbon. This review provides a comprehensive overview of carbon isotope measurements and behavior in magmatic systems, highlighting recent technological advancements and scientific insights. We begin by examining methods for measuring δ<sup>13</sup>C in volcanic gases, vesicles, glasses, melt, and fluid inclusions. We then explore the behavior of carbon isotopes in magmatic systems, especially during magmatic degassing. Finally, we evaluate what recent advances mean for our understanding of the carbon isotope signature of the Earth’s upper mantle.
ISSN:2076-3263