10
QuizMultiple Choice

Geologic Time

Question 10 • MOHEGAN - EARTH SCIENCE A

Why is radioactive dating important when approximating the age of Earth?

Answer
A
Scientists can identify different life forms using index fossil records.
B
Scientists can examine how temperature changes within Earth’s interior.
C
Scientists can determine the order of when rocks formed on Earth.
D
Scientists can analyze changes in chemical concentration of atmospheric gases.

Explanation

Radioactive dating measures the decay of radioactive isotopes in rocks, which can be used to estimate when those rocks formed. This gives scientists a way to determine the ages of rocks and the sequence in which they formed, helping approximate Earth’s age. The correct choice is “Scientists can determine the order of when rocks formed on Earth.”

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