Ancient palynology

Article Abstract:

Pollen samples from prehistoric sites provide information valuable to the reconstruction of early palaeoenvironments. Archaeologists have learned much about the impact of ancient man on the vegetation and the kinds of agriculture predominant in a region with the use of palynology. The University of Chicago's Robert J. Braidwood is to be credited for pioneering the use of methods from the natural sciences in archaeology.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code:

Archaeobotany: macroremains

Article Abstract:

Archaeobotany, or the study of plant remains, is important in understanding ancient cultures. Archaeobotanical materials are divided into three types, namely, macroremains, pollen and phytoliths. Recently, archaeologists reconstructed the culture of the ancient people that once inhabited the ancient Phrygian capital of Gordion with the help of archaeobotany. However, archaeobotany's potentials are yet to be realized.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code:

Geophysical prospecting

Article Abstract:

Prospecting's geophysical methods are also used by archaeologists. These methods, which allow the detection of features below the ground at any depth, employ instruments such as magnetometers, resistivity meters, ground penetrating radar and metal detector-like instruments for conductivity surveys. The late Elizabeth K. Ralph pioneered the use of geophysical surveying in archaeology.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code: