Applications of radioisotopes: What does the radiocarbon (C-14) dating technique estimate? Choose the most appropriate target material that C-14 dating is designed to age-date in archaeology and geology. Choose the correct option.

Given data

• Technique: Radiocarbon dating (C-14).

Concept/ApproachC-14 is produced in the atmosphere and incorporated into living organisms. After death, C-14 decays (half-life ≈ 5730 years). Measuring the C-14/C-12 ratio estimates age.

Key pointsApplicable materials: organic remains (wood, charcoal, bone, cloth, paper) up to ~50,000 years.Not suitable for igneous rocks or pure metals without organic carbon.

Final AnswerAncient wooden artifacts, bones, or other once-living organic remains