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.
IIT JEE
Physics
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AIgneous rocks freshly crystallized from magma
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BAncient wooden artifacts, bones, or other once-living organic remains
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CMeteorite metallic cores
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DRefined industrial metals (steel, copper)
Answer
Correct Answer: Ancient wooden artifacts, bones, or other once-living organic remains
Explanation
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