Chronological dating, or simply dating, is the process of attributing to an object or event a date in the past, allowing such object or event to be located in a previously established chronology. This usually requires what is commonly known as a dating method.

How do dating methods work?

Absolute dating methods determine how much time has passed since rocks formed by measuring the radioactive decay of isotopes or the effects of radiation on the crystal structure of minerals. Paleomagnetism measures the ancient orientation of the Earths magnetic field to help determine the age of rocks.

What is biostratigraphy method of dating a fossil in brief?

The fossils of any organism represent a particular interval of geologic time called a biochron. Biostratigraphy is generally used as a method of stratigraphic correlation, which is the process of determining the equivalence of age or stratigraphic position of layered rocks in different areas.

What is the purpose of thermoluminescence dating?

Thermoluminescence Dating. Thermoluminescence can be used to date materials containing crystalline minerals to a specific heating event. This is useful for ceramics, as it determines the date of firing, as well as for lava, or even sediments that were exposed to substantial sunlight.