RADIOCARBON AND ATMOSPHERIC 14CO2 PIONEER ATHOL RAFTER.

Direct atmospheric ¹⁴CO₂ measurements began in New Zealand in 1954, initially to improve ¹⁴C as a dating tool, but quickly evolving into a method for understanding the carbon cycle. These early ¹⁴CO₂ measurements immediately demonstrated the existence of an "Atom Bomb Effect," as well as an "Industrial Effect." These two gigantic tracer experiments have been utilized via ¹⁴CO₂ measurements over the years to produce a wealth of knowledge in multiple research fields including atmospheric carbon cycle research, oceanography, soil science, and aging of post-bomb materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]