Chapter 19, Problem 19.46QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The information regarding the determination of ratio of ${}^{14}\text{C}$ and ${}^{12}\text{C}$ charred plant remains that are entrapped in old magma and ash flows and uncertainty in determining these ratios is given. The possibility to distinguish between debris from the eruptions of Mt Vesuvius that occurred in the years $472$ and $512$ using radiocarbon dating is to be stated.

Concept introduction: The time taken by any species to get reduced to half of its original concentration is called half-life of that species.

To determine: The possibility to distinguish between debris from the eruptions of Mt. Vesuvius that occurred in the years $472$ and $512$ using radiocarbon dating.