The half-life of ¹⁴C is 5730 years. If a sample contained 100% ¹⁴C and 0% ¹⁴N at a point in time 17,190 years ago, then what percentage of ¹⁴C would it contain today? A)12.5% B)25% C)50% D)75% E)100%

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The half-life of ¹⁴C is 5730 years. After 17,190 years, which is three half-lives (17,190 / 5730 = 3), the amount of ¹⁴C would be reduced to 12.5% (100% -> 50% -> 25% -> 12.5%).

The Half-Life of 14C Is 5730 Years

The Half-Life of ¹⁴C Is 5730 Years