Pitfalls in the calibration of radiocarbon ages

Abstract

The further back the calibration of the radiocarbon time-scale extends, the more it will be used. Calibration is not simple, however, and it may even lead to erroneous conclusions unless certain precautions are taken. Confusion may be caused by the use of different symbols for citing dating results, ages based on different half-lives, and incorrect comparison of ages obtained by different methods. This article looks briefly at the pitfalls that may be encountered in the calibration of radiocarbon ages