⏰ when
When was the Earth’s age first estimated using radioactive dating?
Quick Answer
Reliable radiometric estimates emerged in the early 20th century, especially in 1907.
The Full Story
The first reliable estimates of Earth’s age using radioactive dating came in the early 1900s, with pioneering work by Bertram Boltwood in 1907. By measuring uranium and lead in rocks, scientists could estimate much older ages than had been proposed from cooling or sediment rates alone. These methods eventually led to the modern estimate that Earth is about 4.54 billion years old. Radiometric dating revolutionized geology by giving it an absolute timescale.
Key Facts
1.Early radiometric work in 1907
2.Associated with Bertram Boltwood
3.Modern Earth age is about 4.54 billion years
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The discovery that finally put a number on Earth’s age"
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