Pinisi: Physics Journal
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): Pinisi: Physics Journal

Use of Radiometric Dating Techniques to Determine the Age of Human Fossils

Matande, Pebri Aqli Saputra (Unknown)
Indriani, Sartika (Unknown)
Sarmila (Unknown)
Insani, Mujahidah Nur (Unknown)
Ansar, Asnaeni (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
02 Jun 2025

Abstract

Dating ancient human fossils is a crucial component in reconstructing hominin evolution and migration. This article reviews the basic principles and applications of various radiometric dating techniques, including radiocarbon (14C), potassium-argon (K-Ar), uranium-series (U-Pb, U-Th), and advanced methods such as accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) and laser ablation ICP-MS through a systematic literature review of primary and secondary sources. Data synthesis shows that the 14C method is effective for materials up to ~50,000 years old, at the same time K-Ar and U-Pb/Th are suitable for older geological age ranges (hundreds of thousands to millions of years). Improved accuracy is supported by submicroscopic isotope analysis technology; however, the challenges of sample contamination and limited amounts of authentic material still limit its widespread application. These findings underscore the importance of a multi-method approach to obtain reliable absolute ages for human fossils and provide recommendations for refining sample handling procedures and integrating relative data (stratigraphy, magnetostratigraphy) for more comprehensive temporal contextualization.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ppj

Publisher

Subject

Earth & Planetary Sciences Energy Materials Science & Nanotechnology Physics

Description

Pinisi Physics Journal (PPJ) is a peer-reviewed scientific journal that welcomes high-quality manuscripts focusing on the advancement and application of physics in various ...