The radiocarbon date 2850 +/- 40 BP suggests that there is a 66% chance that the true age:
A) lies between 2810 and 2890 BP.
B) is 2830 BP.
C) lies between 2810 and 2850 BP.
D) lies between 2850 and 2890 BP.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The radiocarbon date 2850 +/- 40 BP means the date is 2850 years before present with a standard deviation of 40 years. A 66% chance (roughly one standard deviation) suggests the true age likely falls within the range of 2850 minus 40 years to 2850 plus 40 years, which is between 2810 and 2890 BP.

The Radiocarbon Date 2850 +/- 40 BP Suggests That There