Scientists can use    dating to figure out the absolute age of fossils. Word Bank:radiometricsuperpositionrelativeBlank 1:

The appropriate term to fill in the blank is radiometric.

Explanation

Radiometric dating is a scientific method used to determine the absolute age of fossils and rocks by measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes contained within them. This technique relies on the known rates of decay (half-lives) of these isotopes to calculate the time elapsed since the rock or fossil formed. While relative dating methods, such as the principle of superposition, can determine the relative ages of rocks or fossils, they do not provide exact ages. In contrast, radiometric dating can provide precise measurements of age in years, making it an essential tool for scientists studying Earth’s history, the evolution of life, and geological timelines. It allows researchers to place fossils in chronological order and understand the timing of significant biological and geological events.