#dating methods

Archaeologists use many methods for determining ages of artifacts and sites. Relative dating methods tell whether something is older or younger than something else. Usually, older things are found below younger ones, unless there has been some disturbance. Absolute dating methods provide a calendar age. Radiocarbon dating is the best-known form of absolute dating. It can only be used on organic materials. A radiocarbon date obtained from a burned cherry pit found in a hearth can tell us the age of artifacts found with it. A radiocarbon date from these cherry pits can tell us the age of stone tools or pottery found with it. (Cherry pits, Oneota, La Crosse County, WI – cm scale)

Patreon | Ko-fi

Used in an x-ray to determine for example density of the tree rings.

By measuring their diameter with the age of construct of a known age, gravestone, damm etc., a growing curve can be constructed, this is the way the dates in Lichenometry has been calibrated.