This is an important topic, for evolutionists want the history of earth to span long ages in the hopes that this will make the origin and evolution of life more likely.

Yes, an understanding of dating methods is important, but we should keep in mind that whether or not these dating methods are accurate, really has no direct relation to whether evolution has ever occurred or could occur. Evolution can only occur by a sequence of, first, production of matter from nothing, or origin of matter.

The quantitative approach is admirable, but Buffon's assumptions are flawed. Silicate minerals have lower heat conductivity than steels and are better insulators leading to slower cooling rates.

Second, the calculations did not incorporate the heating effects of radioactive decay.

Chronological Analysis of the Scriptures- Literal interpretation of the scriptures led some people to conclude that the Earth was created approximately 6,000 years old.

In fact, Archbishop Usher of Ireland calculated that the Earth was created at 9 AM on It was believed that prior to the Great Flood, Earths surface was flat and its climate was mild.

By definition, D* = N-1) (2) Now we can calculate the age if we know the number of daughter atoms produced by decay, D* and the number of parent atoms now present, N.

This was dealt with in the chapter by that name (chapter 1).

Second, generation of living organisms from non-living matter, or origin of life.

He calculated the modern rate of salt delivery to the oceans, and suggested that the present salinity of ocean water would take at least 100 million years to develop.

In the 1860's, English physicist Lord Kelvin disagreed with Charles Lyells proposition that the earth behaves in a uniform, unchanging manner.