Unit 8 Flashcard Review

Front

What are terrestrial planets?

Back

Terrestrial planets are rocky planets that are closer to the sun, including Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. They are characterized by solid surfaces and are composed mainly of metal and rock.

Front

What is the significance of metal compounds in the formation of terrestrial planets?

Back

Metal compounds were more plentiful closer to the star's gravity, which contributed to the formation of rocky planets in the inner solar system.

Front

What is the half-life of Carbon-14?

Back

The half-life of Carbon-14 is approximately 5,700 years.

Front

How do you calculate the age of a sample using Carbon-14 dating?

Back

To calculate the age, determine how many half-lives have passed by comparing the remaining amount of Carbon-14 to the original amount.

Front

If a sample originally contained 100 grams of Carbon-14 and now contains 12.5 grams, how many half-lives have passed?

Back

Three half-lives have passed (100g -> 50g -> 25g -> 12.5g).

Front

What does the presence of Jack-Hills Zircons indicate about early Earth conditions?

Back

The presence of Jack-Hills Zircons suggests that Earth was cool enough for water to pool before the zircons were formed.

Front

What was the purpose of the Rosetta mission?

Back

The Rosetta mission aimed to study comets and their composition to understand the origins of water on Earth.

Front

How did the Rosetta mission help us understand Earth's water sources?

Back

The Rosetta mission measured the types of hydrogen in comet water to compare it with Earth's water.

Front

Which radioactive isotope is used to date organic materials like mummies?

Back

Carbon-14 is used to date organic materials such as mummies.

Front

What is the difference between Carbon-14 and Potassium-40 in dating?

Back

Carbon-14 is used for dating relatively recent organic materials, while Potassium-40 is used for dating geological samples over millions of years.