Radiocarbon Dating Calculator (Carbon-14

Radiocarbon dating (C-14 dating) uses the known radioactive decay rate of carbon-14 to determine the age of organic materials up to ~50,000 years. Developed by Willard Libby in 1949 (Nobel Prize 1960).

To use the Radiocarbon Dating Calculator (Carbon-14), enter your Remaining C-14 Activity (% of original), C-14 Half-Life. The calculator instantly computes Estimated Age, Age Range (±40 years typical) and more. Results update in real time as you change any input — no submit button needed.

How to Use This Calculator

Enter your Remaining C-14 Activity (% of original) (e.g. 50 in %) and C-14 Half-Life — select from 5,730 years (Cambridge standard), 5,568 years (Libby half-life, historical). Results update instantly — no submit button needed. Use metric or imperial units as labeled. For the most accurate result, measure height and weight in the morning without shoes.

The Formula

Age = -(t½ ÷ ln(2)) × ln(C-14 remaining %)

t½ (Cambridge) = 5,730 years | t½ (Libby) = 5,568 years

Worked Example

50% C-14 remaining, 5,730-year half-life: Age = - × ln(0.50) = 5,730 years BP. (Exactly 1 half-life elapsed).

Understanding Your Result

Health calculations based on standard clinical formulas give a population-reference estimate — individual variation exists. Compare your result to the reference ranges provided using validated sources (WHO, CDC, NIH, or specialty clinical guidelines). A single measurement is a starting point; meaningful health trends emerge from tracking the same metric over time under consistent conditions. For values outside reference ranges, consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to diet, exercise, or medication.