Dinosaur Temperature and Isotope Bonding

Scientists can determine dinosaur temperatures using bioappetite, a mineral in bones and teeth. Bioappetite contains carbon and oxygen isotopes, with heavy isotopes like C13 and O18 bonding more strongly. At higher temperatures, these isotopes bond less, allowing scientists to infer the temperature at which bones formed. This method revealed that T-Rex had a body temperature of 38°C.

What is the primary mineral used to measure dinosaur temperatures?

• Calcite

• Fluorite

• Bioappetite

• Quartz

Which isotopes are mentioned as having a stronger attraction to each other?

• C12 and O16

• C13 and O18

• C12 and O18

• C14 and O17

How does temperature affect the bonding of heavy isotopes?

• Lower temperatures decrease bonding

• Temperature has no effect

• Higher temperatures increase bonding

• Higher temperatures decrease bonding

What does a lower fraction of bonded heavy isotopes in a bone indicate?

• The bone formed at a cooler temperature

• The bone formed at a warmer temperature

• The bone is older

• The bone is younger

What was the estimated body temperature of the T-Rex?

• 32 degrees Celsius

• 35 degrees Celsius

• 38 degrees Celsius

• 40 degrees Celsius