Question

Absolute numerical dates for rocks and geologic events are typically determined using the principles of?

1) nuclear fission
2) fluid mechanics
3) radioactive decay
4) magnetism
5) seismology

Answer 1

Geologists determine absolute numerical dates for rocks and geologic events using the principle of radioactive decay.

Step-by-step explanation:

Geologists determine absolute numerical dates for rocks and geologic events using the principle of radioactive decay. They use radioactive isotopes that decay at a known rate to calculate the age of rocks and minerals. By analyzing the ratio between parent and daughter atoms and knowing the rate of decay, geologists can determine the age of geological materials.