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Archaeological excavation process

The practice of carefully noting, documenting, cleaning, photographing, drawing to scale, labeling, and recording every step to prevent damage to the site.

Stratigraphy

The classification of different layers of sedimentary deposits, crucial for understanding geological history and dating artefacts.

Relative Dating

A technique to determine the approximate age of artefacts by comparing them with other artefacts.

Absolute Dating

A scientific method used to determine the exact age of artefacts, often through techniques like radiocarbon dating.

Dry Environment Preservation

A lack of moisture that prevents decay, often preserving bodies in places like sand or dry caves.

Cold Environment Preservation

Preservation of bodies through ice if conditions prevent movement and scavenging.

Waterlogged Environment Preservation

An oxygen-free condition created in lakes, swamps, and peat bogs that prevents decay and aids preservation.

How archaeological sites are discovered

Methods include searching existing sites, discovering by chance, natural processes, human activities, ancient writings, and modern aerial or satellite photography.

Importance of documenting artefacts

All artefacts must be carefully noted, documented, and preserved to maintain the integrity of archaeological findings.

Environmental factors in preservation

Temperature and moisture levels critically influence the likelihood of human remains being preserved.

Natural processes affecting archaeological sites

Processes such as rain, wind, and soil erosion can damage sites if not properly secured.

Aerial Photography in archaeology

Using planes to photograph suspected archaeological sites, though it may not reveal specific details.

Satellite Photography in archaeology

Employing satellite technology to penetrate land and discover hard-to-access archaeological sites.