Isotopic geochemistry of helium, argon and rare gases

Data on occurrence of noble gas isotopes in various natural objects - metheorites, magmetic and sedimentary rocks, underground fluids, Earth atmosphere and hydrosphere - were generalized and systematized. It is shown that isotope ratios of noble gases contain the genetic information enabling both to identify the gas source and to obtain data on evolution and geochemical peculiarities of this source. Thus, noble gases represent the unique geotectonic tracers, a source of knowledge about the origin and history of volatile Earth components. Isotope ratios of noble gases can be effectively used for solution of wide range of problems, related directly or indirectly with the origin of volatile components - ore-bearing fluids, combustible gases and oil, thermal and mineral waters, etc