Nuclear Physics · SHS2 Physics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 2.4.2.LI.3 - Calculate the age of bone specimen

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Explain the principle of radiocarbon dating in their own words, relating it to the concept of half-life learned in Week 19.
Apply the radioactive decay law to determine the age of a bone specimen when given the ratio of carbon-14 to carbon-12, or the percentage of carbon-14 remaining.
Convert a calculated age expressed in decimal form into years, and express answers in appropriate scientific notation where necessary.
Use PhET simulations or multimedia resources to model the decay of carbon-14, and interpret graphical data on decay to solve dating problems.
Evaluate the limitations of radiocarbon dating, including the useful range of the method and sources of error.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Atomic and Nuclear Physics (Strand 4)
Sub-strand: Nuclear Physics (4.2)
Content standard: 2.4.2.CS.1 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the atom as an agent for energy production 2.4.2.LO.1 Recognise the amount of energy an atom can produce when there is a change in its mass.
Indicator: 2.4.2.LI.3 - Calculate the age of bone specimen
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 20 (Week 40 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 143

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Experiential Learning: Using simulations /multimedia guide learners to identify areas of application of radioactivity. Investigate and discuss the historical and contemporary contributions of individuals, including women and individuals with disabilities, to the development of the concept of radioactivity.
Assessment (2.4.2.AS.3). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 3 Strategic reasoning.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Videos
- PhET interactive simulations
- Projectors
- Audio-visuals