Understanding Dating Methods in Paleontology

The video tutorial explains the difference between relative and absolute dating methods. Relative dating determines if a fossil is older or younger than another by examining its depth in the earth, while absolute dating provides an actual age in years, using methods like carbon-14 dating. Carbon-14 dating measures the decay of carbon-14 in dead organisms to estimate their age. The video concludes by summarizing these dating techniques.

What does relative dating help scientists determine about fossils?

• The geographical origin of a fossil

• The exact age of a fossil in years

• The chemical composition of a fossil

• Whether a fossil is older or younger than another

Which method is an example of relative dating?

• Stratigraphy

• Thermoluminescence

• Carbon-14 dating

• Dendrochronology

How do scientists use stratigraphy to date fossils?

• By comparing the fossil to known historical events

• By analyzing the depth of the fossil in the ground

• By measuring the carbon-14 content

• By examining the fossil's chemical structure

What is another name for absolute dating?

• Calendar dating

• Relative dating

• Stratigraphic dating

• Fossil dating

How can a coin help in absolute dating?

• By providing the exact location of the fossil

• By indicating the year the fossil was discovered

• By showing the year inscribed, which helps date nearby remains

• By revealing the type of metal used in ancient times

What happens to carbon-14 in an organism after it dies?

• It increases at a constant rate

• It remains the same

• It transforms into another element

• It decreases at a constant rate

What does carbon-14 dating help scientists determine?

• The geographical location of an organism

• How long ago an organism lived

• The diet of an organism

• The exact species of an organism