Radiometric dating is a method of establishing how old something is – perhaps a wooden artefact, a rock, or a fossil – based on the presence of a radioactive isotope within it. Radiometric dating is useful for finding the age of ancient things, because many radioactive materials decay at a slow rate.

Why is radiometric dating a reliable method?

Because they do not have the ideal number of neutrons, the isotopes are unstable and over time they will convert into more stable atoms. The rate of isotope decay is very consistent, and is not effected by environmental changes like heat, temperature, and pressure. This makes radiometric dating quite reliable.

Would the Earth run out of oxygen?

Yes, sadly, the Earth will eventually run out of oxygen — but not for a long time. According to New Scientist, oxygen comprises about 21 percent of Earths atmosphere. That robust concentration allows for large and complex organisms to live and thrive on our planet.