You need to know the age of a rock collected during a field research project. How do you select which radioactive dating method to use?

What will be an ideal response?


First, the method I choose depends on the radioactive elements that could be present in the rock. So, I need to identify the minerals in the rock and then, knowing the composition of the minerals, decide which method is appropriate. Second, I need to make some guess of the age of the rock so that I use a method with an appropriate half life for dating rocks of this age. Table 7.1 provides information on minerals that I can date and the age range of application of each method.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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Which of the following is NOT an example of a mineral resource being used in a consumptive manner?

A. limestone to make concrete B. aluminum for making cans C. phosphorites for making fertilizer D. graphite to make pencils E. diamond tipped cutting tools

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Glass is rather opaque to ________ radiation. 

A. only intermediate-wavelength B. long-wavelength C. all wavelengths D. short-wavelength

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The process that diffuses light in many directions by atmospheric particles, and contributes to blue skies and red sunsets is called___________

Fill in the blank(s) with correct word

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Precipitation associated with cold fronts is usually more intense and localized than precipitation from warm fronts

Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences