A sample is brought in for C-14 testing to determine its age. The scientist estimates that 1/8 of the C-14 has not yet decayed. Approximately how old is the sample?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The half-life of C-14 is approximately 5,700 years. If 1/8 of the C-14 remains, it means the sample has gone through three half-lives (since 1/2^3 = 1/8). Therefore, the age of the sample is approximately 3 x 5,700 = 17,100 years. The closest answer provided is 16,800 years.

A Sample Is Brought in for C-14 Testing to Determine