Site stratigraphy

Definition

Site stratigraphy refers to the study of the layers of soil and sediment at an archaeological site, providing a record of its chronological sequence. Each layer, or stratum, represents a specific time period and helps archaeologists understand the relationship between artifacts and their context in time and space. By analyzing these layers, archaeologists can reconstruct past human activities and environmental changes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Stratigraphy is based on the principle of superposition, where older layers are found below younger layers in a site's profile.
2. Archaeologists often use radiocarbon dating and other absolute dating techniques to assign specific ages to different strata.
3. Site stratigraphy can reveal important information about past human behavior, such as settlement patterns and technological changes.
4. The context provided by stratigraphic layers is essential for interpreting the meaning and significance of found artifacts.
5. Disturbances like erosion or human activities can complicate stratigraphic records, making careful excavation techniques vital.

Review Questions

• How does the principle of superposition help archaeologists interpret site stratigraphy?
  • The principle of superposition states that in an undisturbed sequence of sedimentary layers, the oldest layers will be at the bottom while the younger ones are on top. This concept allows archaeologists to establish a relative chronological framework for a site. By analyzing the order of strata, they can make inferences about how human activities changed over time and identify significant events associated with different layers.
• Discuss the significance of site stratigraphy in reconstructing past human behaviors and environmental changes.
  • Site stratigraphy plays a critical role in reconstructing past human behaviors by providing context to artifacts found within specific layers. Each stratum can indicate different phases of human activity, revealing how societies adapted to their environment over time. Additionally, variations in sediment layers can reflect environmental changes, such as climate shifts or natural disasters, which influenced human settlement patterns and resource use.
• Evaluate the challenges archaeologists face when interpreting site stratigraphy and how these challenges can affect findings.
  • Interpreting site stratigraphy can be challenging due to factors like soil disturbance from erosion, modern construction activities, or previous excavations. These disturbances can mix layers or alter their contexts, leading to misinterpretation of artifact significance and chronology. To mitigate these issues, archaeologists must employ meticulous excavation techniques and develop strategies for recognizing signs of disturbance. By understanding these complexities, they can improve the accuracy of their interpretations regarding past human life and environmental conditions.

Related terms

Stratum: A single layer of soil or sediment within a site's stratigraphic profile, often containing distinct artifacts or features.

Chronology: The arrangement of events in the order of their occurrence, which is crucial for understanding the temporal aspects of archaeological findings.

Sedimentology: The study of sedimentary processes, materials, and layering, providing insights into the environmental conditions during the time of deposition.