Which of the following describes the absolute dating method?
A) Lower rock layers are older than surface layers.
B) Common assemblages of indicator fossils occur in layers with primitive layers lower.
C) Radioisotopes decay at constant rates and the ratio of isotopes-to-stable elements provides an approximate age to a fossil.
D) The number of homologous features shared between two fossils indicates their age.
E) The age of a fossil can be determined by the number of continents on which it has been found.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Absolute dating is a method of determining the age of a fossil or rock by measuring the amount of a radioactive isotope and its stable decay product. Radioisotopes decay at constant rates, allowing scientists to determine the age of a sample by measuring the ratio of isotopes-to-stable elements.

Which of the Following Describes the Absolute Dating Method