Theoretically we can report dates as young as a single year, but the margin for error may be greater than the date reported. On the other hand, if the sample is too old, not enough C-14 may remain for an accurate measurement. This means that the upper limit of C-14 dating is currently around 50,000 years ago.

What are the limitations of c14 dating?

Challenges of the method The method has limitations: Samples can be contaminated by other carbon-containing materials, like the soil that surrounds some bones or labels that contain animal-based glue. Inorganic materials cant be dated using radiocarbon analysis, and the method can be prohibitively expensive.

How far back can carbon-14 be used?

about 50,000 years Geologists do not use carbon-based radiometric dating to determine the age of rocks. Carbon dating only works for objects that are younger than about 50,000 years, and most rocks of interest are older than that.