What Is Common Lead in Lead-Lead Dating?

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SUMMARY

Common lead in lead-lead dating refers to the lead isotopes present in a sample at the time of crystallization, along with any lead introduced through terrestrial contamination. The discussion clarifies that common lead is distinct from radiogenic lead, which is formed through the decay of heavier elements. The isotopes involved include common lead isotopes 204Pb, 206Pb, and 207Pb, contrasted with radiogenic isotopes 206Pb and 207Pb. Understanding the relationship between these lead types is crucial for accurately determining the age of geological samples, such as meteorites.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of isotopic ratios in geochronology
  • Familiarity with lead-lead dating techniques
  • Knowledge of radiogenic decay processes
  • Basic concepts of contamination in geological samples
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of lead-lead dating methodology
  • Study the differences between radiogenic and non-radiogenic isotopes
  • Explore contamination effects on isotopic dating
  • Learn about the implications of lead isotopes in age determination of meteorites
USEFUL FOR

Geologists, geochemists, and researchers involved in dating geological samples, particularly those studying the age of the solar system through meteorite analysis.

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Homework Statement



Learning about lead-lead dating to determine the age of things (specifically the solar system using meteorites)... I can't seem to understand what the meaning of "common lead" is. So far the best I'm getting is that it is some sort of contaminant.

What is the relationship/difference between the common lead, radiogenic lead that was formed from decay, and initial lead abundances. Is it the same as an initial lead abundance? I'm confused.



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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There are several stable isotopes of lead, only one of which is not formed as the result of the radioactive decay of heavier elements. Lead isotopes which result from radioactive decay are called 'radiogenic'. Lead-lead dating uses the ratio of the amount of 'radiogenic' lead to the amount of 'non-radiogenic' lead to estimate age.

See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lead-lead_dating
 
yes but in my equations we have COMMON 207, 206, and 204 Pb compared with radiogenic 207 and 206Pb and non-radiogenic 204Pb. So what is common lead? My reference states "common, the lead that was present in the sample at the time of its crystallization and the lead introduced by terrestrial contamination."

So is common lead just the abundance of initial lead combined with contamination lead? Hmm.
 

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