Step 1: Identify the necessary characteristics of a suitable mineral for U-Pb dating. A mineral ideal for Uranium-Lead dating must easily incorporate uranium (U) into its crystal structure during formation while strongly rejecting lead (Pb). This ensures that the lead found in the mineral is almost entirely from uranium's radioactive decay, not from contamination. Furthermore, the mineral should be highly resistant to weathering and metamorphism.
Step 2: Assess the available options. (A), (C): Biotite and Hornblende are usable for some radiometric dating methods (e.g., K-Ar), but they are not ideal for U-Pb dating because they can lose lead and are less durable. (B) Zircon (ZrSiO\(_4\)) is the perfect mineral for U-Pb dating. It readily accepts uranium but excludes lead during crystallization and is exceptionally durable, enduring multiple geological cycles. This makes it an excellent "time capsule" for radiometric dating. (D) Quartz (SiO\(_2\)) does not incorporate significant amounts of uranium or other radioactive elements, making it unsuitable for this dating method.