Radiometric dating is a scientific method used to determine the age of rocks, fossils, and other materials by measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes. These isotopes, such as carbon-14 or uranium-238, break down at a predictable rate, known as their half-life. By comparing the ratio of parent isotopes to daughter isotopes, scientists can calculate how long this process has been occurring, providing an estimate of the sample's age. This technique is crucial in fields like geology and paleontology, as it helps establish timelines for the Earth's history and the evolution of life. Radiometric dating has allowed researchers to date ancient artifacts, understand geological events, and piece together the history of our planet.