Relative dating does not offer specific dates, it simply allows to determine if one artifact, fossil, or stratigraphic layer is older than another. Absolute dating methods provide more specific origin dates and time ranges, such as an age range in years.

Why do we need absolute dating?

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.

Is carbon 14 dating relatives?

Relative dating methods also do not result in an absolute age - only an indication of whether items are younger or older than each other. Radiocarbon dating is a widely used method of obtaining absolute dates on organic material. Carbon C14 is a type of carbon that undergoes radioactive decay at a known rate.

What did Einstein mean by time is relative?

In the Special Theory of Relativity, Einstein determined that time is relative—in other words, the rate at which time passes depends on your frame of reference. The effect of time slowing down is negligible at speeds of everyday life, but it becomes very pronounced at speeds approaching that of light.