radiocarbon
This term is primarily used in scientific, archaeological, and geological contexts. It refers specifically to the carbon-14 isotope, distinguishing it from stable isotopes of carbon. The word carries a neutral, technical tone and is almost exclusively associated with the process of chronometric dating.
As a noun, the word is treated as an uncountable mass noun because it refers to a chemical substance or isotope. It does not have a plural form in standard scientific usage. When used as an adjective, it typically modifies nouns like dating, analysis, or age to specify the method of measurement.
Meanings
A radioactive isotope of carbon, specifically carbon-14, which decays over time and is used for dating organic materials.
The scientists measured the radiocarbon levels in the ancient bone to determine its age.