boron 10 isotope is the most abundant stable boron isotope in nature. The atomic mass of boron 10 is 19.8% greater than that of boron 11. It is an essential component in nuclear applications such as radiation shielding and neutron capture therapy, which involves attaching a boron compound to a cancer tumor to be destroyed by the radioactive decay of boron 10.

It is also used for electronic components such as semiconductors. In addition, boron 10 is a useful tracer for anthropogenic contamination of groundwater systems since the isotopic composition of aqueous boron species varies greatly depending on seawater pH.

The isotopic composition of boron in natural waters depends on the concentration and fractionation of boron-containing sedimentary rock and marine organisms. It can be determined by isotopic d11B measurements, which provide important information about the boron cycles in the ocean.

Due to its atoms’ long, low-energy electron orbits, boron is a very good atomic nucleophile. It is therefore able to react with a wide range of chemical elements and compounds. It is also highly water soluble, making it a common constituent of natural waters.

In aqueous samples, boron isotopic composition can be measured using a variety of methods. The most common method is to decompose the sample by alkali fusion, using Na2CO3 or K2CO3. The decomposition takes less time than acid decomposition and can be used on samples with a lower boron content. Other boron isotopic measurement methods include ion exchange, solvent extraction, and 1H NMR.