Archaeological Methodology and Technology

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to archaeological methodology and technology as discussed in the lecture.

Geographic Information System (GIS)

A system that combines hardware and software for geographic data analysis, using layers to offer statistical analyses.

Global Positioning System (GPS)

A technology that determines exact location coordinates using signals from satellites.

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

A non-destructive method that uses radio pulses to reveal subsurface features and structures.

Magnetometry

A method that measures changes in magnetic elements in the soil to locate artifacts.

Surface Detection Systems

Methods used to detect artifacts such as probing rods and augers to assess subsurface characteristics.

Density Plotting

The process of mapping concentrations of artifacts, which can indicate areas of historical human activity.

Shovel Test Pits

Small excavation pits used to find artifacts or features in a controlled manner, usually no deeper than 1 meter.

Remote Sensing

Techniques that pass energy through soil to identify anomalies without excavation.

Artifacts

Objects made or used by humans that are typically found in clusters at archaeological sites.

Field Walking

A method of archaeological investigation involving the systematic collection of surface artifacts.