One critical thinking question that pertains to the two lecture materials uploaded(include source used in the critical tyhtinking question -website), examples would be the 2 reply posts. After making a critical thinking question respond to the two other discussion replies. First post to respond too (include website source used):
How can a geologist use radiometric dating to find out the exact age of a rock?
The question, “How can a geologist use radiometric dating to find out the exact age of a rock?” aims to explore the methods and principles behind absolute dating in geology. Radiometric dating is a technique used to date materials such as rocks by observing the natural decay of radioactive isotopes within them. This method provides a precise numerical age, unlike relative dating, which only sequences events without assigning exact dates. Understanding how geologists apply this process involves knowledge of half-lives, parent and daughter isotopes, and different radiometric methods such as carbon dating or uranium-lead dating. The goal is to appreciate how absolute dating contributes to constructing accurate timelines in Earth’s history and supports the study of major geological and evolutionary events.
Sources
A beginner’s guide to dating (rocks) | U.S. Geological Survey
Website | , 2023 | https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/yvo/news/a-begi… (opens in a new tab)
Second post to respond too (include website source used):
Why would relative dating might be preferred over absolute dating in certain situations?
Relative dating would be better than absolute dating in instances where the main goal is the figure out the chronological sequence of events rather than the numerical age of the object. Relative dating allows scientists to understand the order in which things happen whereas absolute dating provides scientists with the actual age of a rock. Relative dating is also simpler and less expensive. It can also be applied to a larger range of materials because it doesn’t have to be as precise.
Sources
Relative and Absolute Dating Methods in Archaeology
Website | , 2021 | https://hraf.yale.edu/teach-ehraf/relative-and-abs… (opens in a new tab)
Dating – Process of Archaeology
Website | https://www.uwlax.edu/mvac/process-of-archaeology/… (opens in a new tab)