To establish the age of a rock or a fossil, researchers use some type of clock to determine the date it was formed. Geologists commonly use radiometric dating methods, based on the natural radioactive decay of certain elements such as potassium and carbon, as reliable clocks to date ancient events.

How is the age of fossil determined?

Absolute dating uses radiometric dating methods to determine the age of a fossil (or a rock). Essentially, this method uses the radioactive minerals found in fossils and surrounding rocks. This rate of radioactive decay is defined as half-life.

Who found the first dinosaur bone?

Robert Plot In 1677, Robert Plot is credited with discovering the first dinosaur bone, but his best guess as to what it belonged to was a giant human. It wasnt until William Buckland, the first professor of geology at Oxford University, that a dinosaur fossil was correctly identified for what it was.

Who found a dinosaur?

In 1677, Robert Plot is credited with discovering the first dinosaur bone, but his best guess as to what it belonged to was a giant human. It wasnt until William Buckland, the first professor of geology at Oxford University, that a dinosaur fossil was correctly identified for what it was.