Radiocarbon Dating : An Archaeological Perspective

This book covers the major advances and accomplishments of the 14C method in archaeology and analyzes factors that affect the accuracy and precision of 14C-based age estimates. In addition to reviewing the basic principles of the method, it examines 14C dating anomalies and means to resolve them, and considers the critical application of 14C data as a dating isotope with special emphasis on issues in Old and New World archaeology and late Quaternary paleoanthropology. This book, a benchmark for 14C dating, critically reflects on the method and data that underpins, in so many cases, the validity of the chronologies used to understand the prehistoric archaeological record. Radiocarbon Dating: An Archaeological Perspective provides a review of some of the major advances and accomplishments of the 14C method from an archaeological perspective. The text also provides an introduction to some of the problems and issues involved in the use of 14C data in archaeological studies. The book covers topics in radiocarbon dating, including the elements of the radiocarbon method; definition of major anomalies and the different effects of the 14C method; and sample, sample pretreatment, and measurement techniques. The evaluation of radiocarbon data and the historical development of radiocarbon dating as a method that aids in archaeological studies are also discussed. The text is recommended for archaeologists who want to know more about the theories and principles behind radiocarbon dating, its techniques, and its application in their field. The book will also be good for physicists who want to work with archaeologists and apply their knowledge in radiocarbon dating. Writings in this book discuss radiocarbon dating in historical perspective. The application of the 14C method to archaeology materials are considered to be watershed in prehistoric studies. In 1948 Willard F. Libby delivered a public lecture which was describing basic validity of the 14C method, and since that time, the method has been the subject of long-term study. Archeologist, who used 14C method for their studies were concern for potential errors. This book gives an insight of archeological perspective on 14C dating. (powerofdreams)