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It is most likely that scientists determined the absolute age of K - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 33 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 33
It is most likely that scientists determined the absolute age of K. clelandii fossils A. through mtDNA analysis of K. clelandii scales and fangs. B. through carbon... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:It is most likely that scientists determined the absolute age of K - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 33 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
D. through radioisotope dating of rock surrounding the fossils.
Answer
To determine the absolute age of fossils, scientists often rely on methods that provide precise dating techniques. Among the given options, the use of radioisotope dating is one of the most accurate methods available.
Radioisotope dating works by measuring the decay of unstable isotopes present in the surrounding rock layers. These isotopes decay at known rates, allowing scientists to calculate the age of the rock and, consequently, the fossils contained within it. This method is particularly beneficial for dating materials that are millions of years old, which is often the case with ancient fossils.
In contrast, the other methods listed may provide useful contextual information or relative dating, but they do not yield specific absolute age determinations like radioisotope dating does.