Amino acid racemization

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Amino acid racemization is a non-radiometric technique used to determine the age of organic materials. It is based on the gradual conversion of L-amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) to their D-configuration over time, which can be measured and used to estimate the age of the sample. This technique can be used on a variety of organic materials, including bone, shell, and teeth, but not on volcanic glass, ceramics, or other materials that do not contain organic matter. There is no half-life associated with amino acid racemization.

Amino Acid Racemization