Question

Can you think of a process not involving radioactive decay for

which 14^CO2 would behave differently from 12^CO2?

Answer 1

Differences between ¹⁴CO₂ and ¹²CO₂ can be observed in processes like mass spectrometry and isotopic fractionation, which are not related to radioactive decay.

Step-by-step explanation:

One process not involving radioactive decay in which ¹⁴CO₂ would behave differently from ¹²CO₂ is mass spectrometry. Because of their different masses, the two isotopes would be separated into different peaks during mass spectrometric analysis. Since ¹²C is more abundant and lighter, it would be deflected less by the magnetic field than the heavier ¹⁴C during mass analysis resulting in a clearer separation of the two isotopes. Another process that could differentiate between the two is isotopic fractionation during physical or chemical processes. For example, during the uptake of CO₂ in photosynthetic organisms, slight preferences may be given to the lighter isotope, ¹²CO₂, over ¹⁴CO₂, leading to a lower relative concentration of ¹⁴C.

Answer 2

During photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into glucose. The ratio of 14CO2 to 12CO2 in the atmosphere determines the ratio of these isotopes in the plant. However, when the plant dies, it no longer absorbs carbon dioxide and the concentration of 14CO2 decreases over time due to radioactive decay, while 12CO2 remains stable.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process not involving radioactive decay for which 14CO2 would behave differently from 12CO2 is the process of photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into glucose. The ratio of 14CO2 to 12CO2 in the atmosphere determines the ratio of these isotopes in the plant. However, when the plant dies, it no longer absorbs carbon dioxide and the concentration of 14CO2 decreases over time due to radioactive decay, while 12CO2 remains stable. This difference in behavior can be used in carbon dating to determine the age of organic material.