Short Papers on Research in 1969

Abstract

Electron spin resonance is a means of detecting, with microwaves, the presence of electrons trapped in the structurc of crystalline material. Prior to being trapped, the electrons are released from their parent atoms by radiation from radioisotopes present in the conodonts and the host rock.

The feasibility of using electron spin resonance as a dating technique was tested on conodonts (fossil tooth-like structures) from the Holts Summit Formation (upper Devonian), Missouri, the Bushberg Formation (upper Devonian to lower Mississippian), Missouri, and the Heebner Shale Member of the Oread Limestone (upper Pennsyvanian). All of the conodonts yielded an electron spin resonance spectrum arising principally from trapped electrons. It was found that this spectrum would be suitable for the age determination calculations described herein.