C. If you assume that the global amount of radiocarbon (formed by cosmic-ray bombardment of atoms in the upper atmosphere and then dissolved in rain and seawater) is constant, then decaying carbon-14 is continuously replaced in organisms while they are alive. However, when an organism dies, the amount of its carbon-14 decreases as it decays to nitrogen-14. 1. The carbon in a buried peat bed has about 6% of the carbon-14 of modern shells. What is the age of the peat bed? Explain. 2. In sampling the peat bed, you must be careful to avoid any young plant roots or old limestone. Why?

Applications and Investigations in Earth Science (9th Edition)
9th Edition
ISBN:9780134746241
Author:Edward J. Tarbuck, Frederick K. Lutgens, Dennis G. Tasa
Publisher:Edward J. Tarbuck, Frederick K. Lutgens, Dennis G. Tasa
Chapter1: The Study Of Minerals
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C. If you assume that the global amount of radiocarbon (formed by cosmic-ray bombardment of atoms in the upper
atmosphere and then dissolved in rain and seawater) is constant, then decaying carbon-14 is continuously replaced in
organisms while they are alive. However, when an organism dies, the amount of its carbon-14 decreases as it decays to
nitrogen-14.
1. The carbon in a buried peat bed has about 6% of the carbon-14 of modern shells. What is the age of the peat bed?
Explain.
2. In sampling the peat bed, you must be careful to avoid any young plant roots or old limestone. Why?
Transcribed Image Text:C. If you assume that the global amount of radiocarbon (formed by cosmic-ray bombardment of atoms in the upper atmosphere and then dissolved in rain and seawater) is constant, then decaying carbon-14 is continuously replaced in organisms while they are alive. However, when an organism dies, the amount of its carbon-14 decreases as it decays to nitrogen-14. 1. The carbon in a buried peat bed has about 6% of the carbon-14 of modern shells. What is the age of the peat bed? Explain. 2. In sampling the peat bed, you must be careful to avoid any young plant roots or old limestone. Why?
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