Factors affecting the accuracy of the carbon-dating method of analysis have been discussed by several workers (1, 3, 13, 14). The factors examined are: precision of analytical techniques, isotopic fractionation, incorporation of nuclear-bomb-produced Cl4 into humus, and contamination by re- use or soil-respired CO2.

What affects radiocarbon dating?

The radiocarbon dating method is based on certain assumptions on the global concentration of carbon 14 at any given time. One assumption is that the global levels of carbon 14 (also called radiocarbon) in the atmosphere has not changed over time.