Water: Dating & Isotopic Analyses
Water’s continuous movement and flow of water across landscapes contribute
to and provide important clues into the intricacies of biogeochemical cycles
at various spatial and temporal scales.
Water’s continuous movement and flow of water across landscapes contribute
to and provide important clues into the intricacies of biogeochemical cycles
at various spatial and temporal scales.
Limestone is a granular sedimentary rock predominantly composed of
calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which commonly forms along shallow ocean
water beds from fossilized shells and exoskeletons of marine organisms.
Gypsum is a relatively soft and common mineral made up of hydrous
calcium sulfate (CaSO4-2H2O). Whilst pure gypsum crystals are transparent
(often with a pearly or vitreous luster), they can appear opaque and colored
due to the inclusion of other materials (e.g. sand).
Bones and teeth are relatively common within the archaeological and paleontological record due to the tendency for high preservation after burial.
Bones and teeth can be used for a variety of different isotopic analyses, including Oxygen, Strontium, Lead, Neodymium, Carbon, Nitrogen and dating (radiocarbon and in some cases Uranium-Thorium). There are important requirements for bone samples to ensure they produce accurate results.
Caves are natural intact cavities found in many different landscapes which have been accessible to humans and animals for millions of years.
Caves – or rock shelters – have been studied by archaeologists for the past two centuries, with specific focus on the investigation of prehistoric cave paintings, ceremonial use and other evidence of occupation.
There are numerous different options for dating marine samples, each with applicable timespans, levels of certainty and limitations.
Isobar Science and Beta Analytic invite researchers interested in isotopes and dating to view this FREE webinar: Isotopes & Dating in Marine Enviornments
Uranium-Thorium (U-Th) dating is a radioactive method to date a variety of carbonate samples, including corals, cave deposits, cave artwork, shells, foraminifera and bone.