When news is announced on the discovery of an archaeological find, we often hear about how the age of the sample was determined using radiocarbon dating, otherwise simply known as carbon dating. Deemed the gold standard of archaeology, the method was developed in the late s and is based on the idea that radiocarbon carbon 14 is being constantly created in the atmosphere by cosmic rays which then combine with atmospheric oxygen to form CO2, which is then incorporated into plants during photosynthesis. When the plant or animal that consumed the foliage dies, it stops exchanging carbon with the environment and from there on in it is simply a case of measuring how much carbon 14 has been emitted, giving its age. But new research conducted by Cornell University could be about to throw the field of archaeology on its head with the claim that there could be a number of inaccuracies in commonly accepted carbon dating standards. If this is true, then many of our established historical timelines are thrown into question, potentially needing a re-write of the history books.


Carbon dating human remains



Quotations about Evolution
Christianity Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for committed Christians, experts in Christianity and those interested in learning more. It only takes a minute to sign up. Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search. One point considered a serious proof of evolution is the scientific method of carbon dating.


Science vs. Fiction
Radiocarbon dating is set to become more accurate after an international team of scientists improved the technique for assessing the age of historical objects. The team of researchers at the Universities of Sheffield, Belfast, Bristol, Glasgow, Oxford, St Andrews and Historic England, plus international colleagues, used measurements from almost 15, samples from objects dating back as far as 60, years ago, as part of a seven-year project. They used the measurements to create new international radiocarbon calibration IntCal curves, which are fundamental across the scientific spectrum for accurately dating artefacts and making predictions about the future. Radiocarbon dating is vital to fields such as archaeology and geoscience to date everything from the oldest modern human bones to historic climate patterns.




Network with colleagues and access the latest research in your field. ACS Spring Registration is now open. Chemistry at Home Explore chemistry education resources by topic that support distance learning.