This calculator helps scientists and students estimate the age of carbon-based materials by using the carbon decay formula. It is a vital tool for archeologists and researchers in Earth Sciences.
Carbon Dating Calculator
Results
Data Source and Methodology
All calculations are based on the standard carbon-14 decay formula. For detailed methodologies, refer to the original source. All calculations rely strictly on this source.
The Formula Explained
\( \text{Age} = \frac{\ln(\frac{\text{Original Amount}}{\text{Current Amount}})}{\text{Decay Constant}} \)
Glossary of Terms
- Current Amount: The current amount of carbon-14 in the sample.
- Original Amount: The estimated original amount of carbon-14.
- Decay Constant: A constant used in the decay formula.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is carbon dating?
Carbon dating is a method used to determine the age of an object containing organic material by measuring the amount of carbon-14 it contains.
How accurate is carbon dating?
Carbon dating is generally accurate for samples up to about 50,000 years old.
What materials can be carbon dated?
Materials that can be dated include wood, charcoal, bone, and fibers from plants and animals.
Why does carbon dating work only on organic materials?
Carbon dating relies on the presence of carbon-14, which is only found in organic materials.
Can carbon dating be used on rocks?
No, carbon dating cannot be used on rocks; other radiometric dating methods are used for non-organic materials.