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Identify the statements that correctly describe calibrated radiocarbon dates.

A) Calibrated radiocarbon dates are based on the radioactive decay of carbon-14 isotopes.
B) Calibrated radiocarbon dates provide a precise and exact age for an archaeological sample.
C) Calibrated radiocarbon dates are adjusted for fluctuations in atmospheric carbon-14 levels over time.
D) Calibrated radiocarbon dates are typically expressed with a range or error margin.
E) Calibrated radiocarbon dates are not affected by environmental factors or contamination.
F) The calibration curve used for radiocarbon dating is based on the assumption of a constant atmospheric carbon-14 concentration.

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Final answer:

Calibrated radiocarbon dates are adjusted for atmospheric carbon-14 level fluctuations and are based on the decay of carbon-14 isotopes, expressed with a range indicating uncertainty. They provide an approximation rather than an exact age and can be affected by environmental factors.

Step-by-step explanation:

Calibrated radiocarbon dating involves refining conventional radiocarbon age estimates based on comparison with a calibration curve, typically derived from dendrochronologically-dated tree rings. Calibrated dates account for variations in atmospheric carbon-14 levels over time, which influence the initial starting point of the carbon-14 decay process.

The correct statements identifying what calibrated radiocarbon dates are as follows:

  • A) True: Calibrated radiocarbon dates are indeed based on the radioactive decay of the carbon-14 isotope.
  • C) True: Calibrated dates are adjusted for fluctuations in atmospheric carbon-14 levels.
  • D) True: Calibrated dates are typically expressed with a range or error margin reflecting the uncertainties inherent in the process and the calibration curve.

The incorrect statements are:

  • B) False: Calibrated dates provide an approximation of age, not an exact date, due to a range of possible values on the calibration curve.
  • E) False: Calibrated dates can be affected by environmental factors or contamination, which can alter the initial amount of carbon-14 in the sample.
  • F) False: The calibration curve is based on the understanding that atmospheric carbon-14 concentration has varied over time, not remained constant, which is why calibration is necessary.

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