Explain the difficulty in using sedimentary and metamorphic rocks for radiometric age dating

What will be an ideal response?


Answer: Sedimentary rocks are rarely used for age dating because the particles in the sedimentary rock are not the same age as the rock in which they formed. The sediments have been weathered from rocks of varying ages. Metamorphic rocks are also difficult to use; the minerals in a metamorphic rock don't necessarily represent the time when that rock initially formed. The resulting radiometric date may in fact represent any number of metamorphic phases.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

You might also like to view...

Local residents are not informed of formulae of the hydrofracturing fluid being used in their

community because companies claim the exact mixture is a trade secret. Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

The Deepwater Horizon Disaster (accident occurred in the Gulf in 2010) is called a "blowout".

a. true b. false

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Briefly describe cinder cones

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Which of the following is an example of greenwashing?

A) discounting future effects B) ecolabeling C) creating the illusion of green or sustainable practices D) using biodegradable paints E) covering up environmental injustices

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences