When radiometric dating is applied to metamorphic rocks, the date obtained is:
A) the date of final crystallization of the magma.
B) the date at which metamorphism began.
C) a minimum age for the parent rock.
D) the date at which metamorphism ceased.
E) a maximum age for the daughter rock.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Radiometric dating of metamorphic rocks typically gives the age of the original formation of the parent rock, not the age of the metamorphic event. This is because the isotopes used for dating were incorporated into the rock when it first crystallized from magma or sediment, providing a minimum age for the parent rock before it underwent metamorphism.

When Radiometric Dating Is Applied to Metamorphic Rocks, the Date