The rate constant, k, for the first-order decay of ¹⁴C is 1.21 x 10^-4yr. If analysis of a piece of paper, parchment, or papyri suggests that 97.4% of the ¹⁴C that was present initially still remains in the sample, it would most likely be associated with which of the following battles?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The decay of ¹⁴C is a first-order process, and the percentage remaining can be used to estimate the age of the sample. Given that 97.4% of ¹⁴C remains, the sample is relatively young. Calculating the age using the rate constant, the sample is approximately 2,150 years old, which aligns with the Battle of Yorktown in 1781 AD.

The Rate Constant, K, for the First-Order Decay of 14C

The Rate Constant, K, for the First-Order Decay of ¹⁴C