What is the source of natural carbon-14?
A)nuclear fission of the heavy, radioactive elements uranium and thorium
B)fusion of hydrogen and helium in the Sun and eruption of solar flares
C)leakage of radioactive gases from the liquid, outer core
D)cosmic ray collisions triggering "neutron-capture" in ordinary atmospheric nitrogen

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Natural carbon-14 is generated by cosmic ray collisions with nitrogen in the Earth's atmosphere, which leads to "neutron-capture" and the creation of carbon-14. This carbon-14 subsequently becomes incorporated into living organisms through the carbon cycle.

What Is the Source of Natural Carbon-14