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Radiocarbon Decay Age Estimation Calculator

t = −ln(N/N₀) × 5730 / ln 2 — C-14 dating formula.

Estimates the age of an organic sample from its remaining C-14 activity as a fraction of the original, using the radiocarbon half-life of 5,730 years.

Dr. Helena Ortiz By Dr. Helena Ortiz
Published Last reviewed 1 min read

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Results

Enter values and click Calculate to see results.
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How to use this calculator

  1. Fill in the inputs above using the units you already have.
  2. Values update automatically as you type — no submit button needed.
  3. Hover any result row for the underlying formula and intermediate values.

Formula

t = 5730 × ln(N₀/N) / ln 2 = 8267 × ln(100 / activity%)

In depth

Estimates the age of an organic sample from its remaining C-14 activity as a fraction of the original, using the radiocarbon half-life of 5,730 years.