Determining the age of the earth:  A Rising Tide Project for Grades 9 and 10

Purpose
To examine the concept of half-life and how it is used to determine ages of rocks.

Activity Synopsis
Students will simulate half-life by using either marked washers or M&M's in a box.  The box is shook and the contents examined, then the marked or "M" side of the pieces is removed.  This is repeated until all items have been removed.

Activity Synopsis
Students will simulate half-life by using either marked washers or M&M's in a box.  The box is shook and the contents examined, then the marked or "M" side of the pieces is removed.  This is repeated until all items have been removed.

Time Frame
Lab time:  One period

Keywords
half-life, carbon 14, absolute age