Using a substance's rate of decay to determine its age is an exam (A relative dating. (B) using index fossils. (C) chemical engineering. (D) absolute dating.
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The Deep Dive
Determining a substance's age through its rate of decay is a scientific method that reveals the time elapsed since its formation. This technique, often used with radioactive isotopes like carbon-14, allows us to date ancient artifacts and geological formations with impressive accuracy, making it a cornerstone of modern archaeology and geology. In the real world, absolute dating techniques have revolutionized our understanding of Earth's history. By applying these methods, scientists can pinpoint when certain events occurred, such as volcanic eruptions or the age of dinosaur fossils. This not only helps us piece together the history of life on Earth but also provides valuable context for climate change and biodiversity studies.