Organisms that obtain carbon from a source that is depleted or enriched in 14C relative to the atmosphere may return ages that are considerably older or younger than they actually are. This is due to:
A) De Vries effect.
B) the reservoir effect.
C) the effect of different photosynthetic pathways.
D) problems with calibrating the radiocarbon curve.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reservoir effect occurs when organisms obtain carbon from sources that have different 14C levels than the atmosphere, leading to inaccuracies in radiocarbon dating. This can make them appear older or younger than they actually are.

Organisms That Obtain Carbon from a Source That Is Depleted