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ESR isochron dating for teeth: a brief demonstration in solving the external dose calculation problem
1Dept of Geology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Electron spin resonance (ESR) dating of fossil teeth uses a radiation-sensitive signal for absolute dating. The isochron method accurately determines the external dose rate, improving dating reliability.
Area of Science:
- Paleochronology
- Archaeometry
- Geochronology
Background:
- Electron spin resonance (ESR) signals in fossil enamel offer potential for absolute dating.
- Accurate dating relies on selecting appropriate uranium (U) uptake models and precise external dose rate (Dext) calculation.
- Uncertainty in Dext is a primary limitation in ESR dating.
Observation:
- A radiation-sensitive ESR signal at g = 2.0018 is present in fossil enamel.
- The isochron method allows for the derivation of Dext during ESR analysis.
- Plotting apparent dose (AD) against the total internal dose rate for multiple subsamples yields a regression line (isochron).
Findings:
- The isochron method facilitates the accurate determination of the total external dose (Aext) from the y-intercept.
- Each isochron's slope directly represents the sample's age.
- This method enhances the precision of absolute dating for fossil teeth.
Implications:
- Improved accuracy in ESR dating of fossil teeth.
- Enhanced understanding of paleodose estimation and U uptake models.
- Broader application of ESR dating in paleoanthropology and archaeology.