Chapter 19, Problem 46E

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Decay process of potassium- $40$ is given. Various questions based upon the decay process are to be answered.

Concept introduction: Radiocarbon dating is based on the radioactivity of the nuclide ${}_6^{14}\text{C}$ which decays by beta particle production.

The mass ratios of ${}^{\text{40}}\text{Ar}$ to ${}^{40}\text{K}$ have been used to date various geologic materials.

To determine: The reason for the use of ${}^{\text{40}}{\text{Ar/}}^{40}\text{K}$ ratios rather than ${}^{\text{40}}{\text{Ca/}}^{40}\text{K}$.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Decay process of potassium- $40$ is given. Various questions based upon the decay process are to be answered.

Concept introduction: Radiocarbon dating is based on the radioactivity of the nuclide ${}_6^{14}\text{C}$ which decays by beta particle production.

The mass ratios of ${}^{\text{40}}\text{Ar}$ to ${}^{40}\text{K}$ have been used to date various geologic materials.

To determine: An assumption made while using the given technique.

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Decay process of potassium- $40$ is given. Various questions based upon the decay process are to be answered.

Concept introduction: Radiocarbon dating is based on the radioactivity of the nuclide ${}_6^{14}\text{C}$ which decays by beta particle production.

The mass ratios of ${}^{\text{40}}\text{Ar}$ to ${}^{40}\text{K}$ have been used to date various geologic materials.

To determine: The age of a sedimentary rock having an ${}^{\text{40}}{\text{Ar/}}^{40}\text{K}$ ratio of $0.95$

(d)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Decay process of potassium- $40$ is given. Various questions based upon the decay process are to be answered.

Concept introduction: Radiocarbon dating is based on the radioactivity of the nuclide ${}_6^{14}\text{C}$ which decays by beta particle production.

The mass ratios of ${}^{\text{40}}\text{Ar}$ to ${}^{40}\text{K}$ have been used to date various geologic materials.

To determine: The effect on the measured age of a rock if some ${}_{18}^{40}\text{Ar}$ escapes from the sample.