14
QuizMultiple Choice

Absolute Dating

Question 14 • MOHEGAN - EARTH SCIENCE A

Which statement accurately describes radioactive dating?

Answer
A
Geologists use only one type of radioactive dating.
B
Geologists compare parent and daughter elements to determine rock type.
C
Geologists will measure how stable multiple parent elements can decay into multiple daughter elements.
D
Geologist compare the observed abundance of naturally occurring radioactive isotopes and their decay products using decay rates.

Explanation

Radioactive dating estimates a rock’s age by measuring the amounts of a radioactive parent isotope and its decay products, then applying the isotope’s known decay rate. This matches choice D, which describes comparing naturally occurring radioactive isotopes and their decay products using decay rates. The method determines age, not rock type, and geologists can use more than one dating system.

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