Abstract
An examination of the practice of derivatizing organic compounds such as fatty acids, sterols and amino acids in relation to subsequent analysis via gas chromatography–combustion–isotope ratio mass spectrometry is presented. Fractionation processes, such as kinetic isotope effects, which cause a deviation in the measured stable carbon isotope ratios (δ-values) of derivatized compounds from simple mass balance considerations are examined. Particular attention is paid to reactions that proceed by the cleavage of a carbon-containing bond and reactions that are likely to have kinetic isotope effects associated with them, such as acetylation and diazotization. Isotope fractionation processes other than those which are kinetic based are also discussed, as is the additional imprecision of the calculation of the δ-values of sample compounds inherent when derivative carbon is added. Failure to take this imprecision into account when comparing δ-values could lead to erroneous conclusions with respect to the magnitude of kinetic isotope effects caused by derivative reactions.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.