How do scientists estimate how old the solar system is?
A) They look up the answer in a book.
B) They make a guess: no one really knows how old the universe is.
C) They measure the abundances of radioactive elements in meteorites, and use their half-lives to calculate the age.
D) They measure the speeds and distances of galaxies, and calculate the time it took for them to travel that distance.
E) They measure how fast the Sun is losing energy, and how much energy it has to lose.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Scientists measure the abundances of radioactive isotopes (such as uranium or lead) in meteorites, which have remained unchanged since they formed in the solar system's early history. By measuring their decay rates (half-lives), scientists can calculate the age of the solar system.

How Do Scientists Estimate How Old the Solar System Is