THEORY AND APPLICATION OF ZIRCON U-Pb ISOTOPE DATING TECHNIQUE

The U-Pb method is one of the most important isotopic dating methods in China. With analysis on the theories of zircon U-Pb isotopic dating, the characteristics of zircons of different genesis and the common testing technique, this paper summarizes the application of this method in forming age of parent rock, evolution of geological events, sources of clasolite, sedimentary time and so on. The introduction of zircon U-Pb dating technique has played a significant role in promoting geological research in China. The application area is expanding.