Carbon-14 Dating Is a Useful Tool for Determining the Age

question 90

Multiple Choice

Carbon-14 dating is a useful tool for determining the age of the artifacts of ancient civilizations. However, when future archeologists study ruins of our civilization, they obtain confusing results -- with some artifacts dating MUCH older than others. Which of the following would be an explanation for these results?

• A)Variations in the Sun's intensity and production of cosmic rays.
• B)Ecosystem changes resulting in a reduction in carbon based life.
• C)The use of petroleum based synthetic materials.
• D)None of the choices.

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Definitions:

Carbon Dioxide

A gas that is both colorless and odorless, created through the combustion of carbon and organic materials as well as during the process of respiration, which is then utilized by plants during photosynthesis.

Erythrocyte

A red blood cell, responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.

Erythropoiesis

The process through which new red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, a critical process for maintaining adequate oxygen transport in the blood.

Erythropoietin

A hormone produced mainly by the kidneys, stimulating the production and maintenance of red blood cells in response to low oxygen levels in tissues.