The ratio of C₃ to C₄ plants in a paleoenvironment can be estimated using the ratio of two stable isotopes of which element derived from fossils or ancient soils?
A)oxygen
B)nitrogen
C)carbon
D)strontium

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ratio of stable carbon isotopes (specifically, carbon-12 and carbon-13) in plant tissues differs between C₃ and C₄ plants. C₃ plants tend to have a higher ratio of carbon-12 to carbon-13, while C₄ plants have a lower ratio. Therefore, by analyzing the stable carbon isotope ratio of fossils or ancient soils, scientists can estimate the relative abundance of C₃ and C₄ plants in a paleoenvironment.

The Ratio of C₃ to C₄ Plants in a Paleoenvironment