Which of the Following Methods Would Give the Most Accurate

Question

Which of the following methods would give the most accurate estimate of the age of a fossil?
A)Measuring the decay of radioisotopes in the fossil.
B)Comparing the depth of the fossil in the Earth's crust to the depth of fossils of known ages.
C)Comparing the chemical makeup of the fossil with that of the surrounding rock.
D)Determining where on Pangaea the fossil was formed.

Accepted Answer

Measuring the decay of radioisotopes in the fossil is the most accurate method to estimate its age because it provides a direct measurement of the amount of time that has passed since the organism died. The decay of radioisotopes occurs at a predictable rate, making it possible to calculate the age of the fossil precisely. Comparing the depth of the fossil in the Earth's crust or its chemical makeup with that of the surrounding rock can provide some information about the fossil's age, but these methods are not as accurate as measuring the decay of radioisotopes. Determining where on Pangaea the fossil was formed is not relevant to estimating its age.