Chapter 24, Problem 49A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The ratio used in carbon -14 dating to be defined.

Concept introduction:

Radioactive decay is unstable nuclei that lose energy by emitting radiation in a spontaneous process. Until they form stable atoms unstable atoms undergo radioactive decay, often of a dissimilar element.

Answer to Problem 49A

The ratio that is used in carbon 14 dating is carbon 12 + carbon 13. This ratio constant in living organisms because organisms are regularly taking in carbon compounds; they contain same ratio of carbon-14 to carbon-12 and carbon-13 that found in atmosphere.

Explanation of Solution

The ratio that is used in carbon 14 dating is carbon 12 + carbon 13. Whenever animals consume plants, carbon-14 atoms that were part of the plant turn into the part of animal. This is because organisms are regularly taking in carbon compounds; they contain same ratio of carbon-14 to carbon-12 and carbon-13 that found in atmosphere. After they die, organisms no longer absorb new carbon compounds, and carbon-14 they already consist of continues to decay.

Conclusion

Carbon 12 + carbon 13 are the ratio that is used in carbon 14 dating. After animals are dying, organisms no longer absorb new carbon compounds thus carbon-14 they already consist of continues to decay.