IntCal (International Calibration)

IntCal, or International Calibration, is a scientific framework used to improve the accuracy of radiocarbon dating. Radiocarbon dating measures how much carbon-14 remains in organic materials to estimate age. Since the amount of carbon-14 in the atmosphere has varied over time, IntCal provides a detailed calibration curve based on data from tree rings, corals, and other sources. This curve allows scientists to convert radiocarbon ages into more precise calendar ages, ensuring consistent and reliable dating of archaeological and geological samples worldwide.