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 carbon-13 to carbon-12 isotopes in fossils or ancient soils can be used to estimate the ratio of C3 to C4 plants in a paleoenvironment. C3 plants have a lower ratio of carbon-13 to carbon-12 compared to C4 plants. Therefore, a higher carbon-13 to carbon-12 ratio indicates a greater abundance of C4 plants in the past.

The Ratio of C3 to C4 Plants in a Paleoenvironment