What types of artifacts can accelerator mass spectrometry be used to date, other than wood, paper, and bread?
Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) is a technique used for radiocarbon dating, which is primarily associated with organic materials like wood, paper, and bread. However, AMS can be applied to date a wide range of artifacts and samples beyond these traditional ones. Here are some examples:
1. Bones and teeth: AMS can be used to date animal bones and teeth, including those of mammals, fish, birds, and reptiles. This is particularly useful for archaeological and paleontological studies, helping to determine the age of animal remains and reconstruct ancient environments.
2. Shells and coral: AMS can date shells and coral from marine organisms, providing insights into past marine environments, climate change, and sea-level fluctuations.
3. Fossil fuels: AMS can be utilized to date fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. This assists in determining the age of deposits and understanding the geological history of these resources.
4. Textiles and fibers: AMS can date textiles and fibers made from organic materials such as cotton, silk, or wool. This helps in identifying the age of ancient fabrics and determining their cultural significance.
5. Human remains: AMS can be applied to date ancient human remains, including bones, teeth, hair, and nails. It aids in establishing the age of individuals, studying ancient populations, and investigating historical events.
6. Pottery and ceramics: While AMS is primarily used for dating organic materials, it can indirectly date pottery and ceramics by dating organic residues, such as food or plant remains trapped in the porous pottery walls.
7. Sediments and peat: AMS can analyze organic matter trapped in sediment layers, such as peat bogs and lake sediments. This method helps in reconstructing past environments, studying climate change, and estimating the age of sedimentary deposits.
These examples illustrate the versatility of AMS in dating various types of artifacts and natural materials, allowing scientists to unravel the chronology and history of our planet.