A paleobotanist uses radiocarbon dating to determine the age of a fossil plant. If the remaining carbon-14 is 12.5% of the original amount, and the half-life of carbon-14 is 5730 years, how many years ago did the plant die?

Mon, 04 May 2026 00:49:51 +0000

**How A Paleobotanist Uses Radiocarbon Dating to Determine the Age of a Fossil Plant – What the Science Says** In recent years, understanding the true age of ancient plant remains has become a focal point across scientific, historical, and environmental discussions. With growing interest in climate history, ecosystem evolution, and the long-term impacts of environmental change, radiocarbon dating has emerged as a crucial tool. For those captivated by how scientists unlock centuries-old secrets hidden in fossilized plant material, the method behind measuring 12.5% remaining carbon-14 offers compelling insight into both biology and physics. A paleobotanist uses radiocarbon dating to determine the age of a fossil plant. If the remaining carbon-14 is 12.5% of the original amount, and the half-life of carbon-14 is 5,730 years, the plant died over 17,000 years ago—pushing back timelines of ancient ecosystems in ways that reshape our understanding of Earth’s past. This precise measurement doesn’t just pinpoint time; it reveals vital clues about historical climate patterns, extinction events, and human-plant interactions long before recorded history. ### Why A Paleobotanist Uses Radiocarbon Dating to Determine the Age of a Fossil Plant. If the Remaining Carbon-14 Is 12.5% of the Original Amount, and the Half-Life of Carbon-14 Is 5730 Years, How Many Years Ago Did the Plant Die?