Geologic History of Earth Flashcard

Front

What is the half-life of carbon-14?

Back

5730 years

Front

What makes a good Index Fossil?

Back

An organism that lived for a relatively short period of time and is found in many different locations.

Front

True or False: To be considered an index fossil, it had to have lived for a relatively short period of time.

Back

True

Front

What is half-life?

Back

The time it takes for half of the radioactive material to decay.

Front

Which conclusion can be drawn from the data: Jellyfish and trilobites never competed for resources?

Back

This statement cannot be confirmed without additional data.

Front

Which conclusion can be drawn from the data: Trilobites and dinosaurs did not live at the same time?

Back

This statement is true based on the fossil record.

Front

What is an Index Fossil?

Back

A fossil that is used to define and identify a particular time period.

Front

Why is carbon-14 used in dating?

Back

Because it is a radioactive isotope that decays at a known rate.

Front

What is the significance of the half-life in geology?

Back

It helps determine the age of fossils and rocks.

Front

What does it mean if a fossil is found in multiple locations?

Back

It may indicate that the organism was widespread during its time.