Surface Exposure Dating (Geology)
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In plain terms
Cosmic rays create tiny signals in exposed rock—measure them, and you can estimate how long a surface has been exposed.
Key takeaways
- Useful for glacial deposits, landslides, terraces, and erosion rates.
- Shielding, burial, and erosion can affect results.
- Sampling strategy is crucial.
- Often paired with geomorphology and mapping.
- Interprets exposure time, not necessarily formation time.