Anthropology short notes · Paper 1

(iii) Neolithic

Part of Principles of Prehistoric Archaeology.

Short notes

Neolithic

Definition

The primary limitation of this method is its material specificity; it can only be applied to the limited number of minerals and volcanic glasses that contain Uranium-238 and have the structural integrity to maintain tracks over millions of years. Additionally, because it is an absolute method, it requires sophisticated laboratory equipment and nuclear irradiation to be carried out effectively.

Example / case study

  • Obsidian glass used by Neolithic Mexico.