C-14 calibration curves

C-14 calibration curves are used by scientists to accurately determine the age of ancient organic materials. Because the amount of radioactive carbon-14 in an organism decreases predictably over time, raw measurements need adjustment for past variations in atmospheric C-14 levels. Calibration curves provide a reference chart that compares the measured C-14 age to calendar years, allowing us to convert radiocarbon ages into actual calendar dates. These curves are built from growth rings and other well-dated samples, ensuring our understanding of historical and prehistoric timelines is as accurate as possible.