The Radiocarbon Content of ¹⁴C Decreases After the Death of a Living

question 6

Short Answer

The radiocarbon content of ¹⁴C decreases after the death of a living system with a half-life of 5730 y. If an archaeologist working a dig finds an ancient firepit containing some partially consumed firewood and the wood contains only 12.5 percent of the ¹⁴C content of an equal carbon sample from a present-day tree, what is the age of the ancient site?

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Definitions:

Age of 5

A developmental stage in early childhood marked by significant growth in physical, cognitive, and social skills.

Authoritative

A parenting style characterized by high responsiveness and high demands, considered optimal for child development.

Competent and Mature

Refers to possessing the necessary skills, knowledge, and emotional maturity for effective performance and decision-making.

Major Formative Period

A critical time frame in an individual's life when significant growth, development, or change happens.