192k views
5 votes
The geological timescale was first developed using the fossil record, but this provided only a system of relative dating; absolute dates weren't established until the discovery of: _______________-

User Efesar
by
4.1k points

2 Answers

6 votes

Answer:

Radioactive decay

Step-by-step explanation:

Radioactive decay which is a property of several elements found on the earth involves the emission of charged particles and energy of unstable nuclei of radioactive atoms, thereby becoming stable with time. The rate of radioactive decay is often referred to as half-life of that element, and could be as more than millions of years. Radioactive elements that undergo radioactive decay have made it possible for a more accurate dating to be achieved using the known decay rates of radioactive materials.

User Tetsujin No Oni
by
5.1k points
7 votes

Answer: ... radioactive decay.

Step-by-step explanation:

User Igor Urisman
by
4.4k points