What is the ultimate source for naturally occurring carbon-14?
A)Cosmic ray collisions and neutron capture involving nitrogen
B)Dissolution of carbonate rocks
C)Decay of unstable parent isotopes to create a stable carbon-14
D)Volcanic eruption and emission of greenhouse gases

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Carbon-14 is produced naturally in the atmosphere through the interaction of cosmic rays with nitrogen atoms, which results in the formation of carbon-14. This process is called cosmogenic carbon-14 production. Therefore, the ultimate source for naturally occurring carbon-14 is cosmic ray collisions and neutron capture involving nitrogen.

What Is the Ultimate Source for Naturally Occurring Carbon-14