Explain how carbon-14 dating works and discuss ... - SS2 Physics Modern Physics - Nuclear Physics Question

Carbon-14 dating is a commonly used radiometric dating method for determining the age of organic materials up to around 50,000 years old. It is based on the decay of carbon-14 (C-14) isotopes in the atmosphere. Living organisms constantly exchange carbon with the environment, and when they die, the exchange stops. By measuring the ratio of C-14 to stable carbon isotopes (C-12 and C-13) in the remains, the age of the sample can be estimated. However, carbon-14 dating has limitations, such as the inability to date materials older than 50,000 years due to the decreasing concentration of C-14 over time. It also requires calibration with other dating methods for greater accuracy.