Biology: Radiocarbon Dating Name: ______

Directions: Go to the Radiocarbon Dating section on Nova PBS by entering in the following link (http://goo.gl/lcY0WM) or using the link on the class webpage. Watch the series of audio graphics in order to answer the following questions about radiocarbon dating. It may take a minute or two for each video to load…just be patient, it will eventually load!

I have separated questions based on audio-graphic section for your convenience.

In Nature

1. Compare and contrast Carbon-14 with Carbon-12.

2. How can Carbon-14 and Carbon-12 be used to date an object?

In the Lab

3. Briefly describe the process scientists use to measure C-14 and C-12 in a sample. Margin of Error

4. What is the time limit for radiocarbon dating?

5. Why does the amount of C-14 and C-12 in the atmosphere matter for radiocarbon dating?

6. How does burning fossil fuels influence radiocarbon dating?