Ignoring possible sample selection and preparation issues, as the number of atoms n in a sample is likely large, the statistical estimation error is
likely small compared to other issues as noted in the Wiki article (for example, the assumption that the proportion of radioactive CO2 in the
atmosphere over time is constant). This is based on the Wiki reference above:
"More recently, accelerator mass spectrometry has become the method of choice; it counts all the 14C atoms in the sample and not just the few that
happen to decay during the measurements; it can therefore be used with much smaller samples (as small as individual plant seeds), and gives results
much more quickly."
And, the comment:
"The above calculations make several assumptions, such as that the level of 14C in the atmosphere has remained constant over time.[5] In fact, the
level of 14C in the atmosphere has varied significantly"
owing to varying intensity over time of both galactic cosmic rays and more local solar radiation, as also noted by Wiki, and further in my opinion,
the latter combined with oscillations in the effectiveness of the earth's protective magnetic field and possibly vulcanism introducing reflective
atmospheric particles.
[Edited on 3-2-2019 by AJKOER] |
