Dealing With Evidence

Sorting, Recording and Preserving evidence:

Archaeologists describe, photograph and count the objects that they have found. They group the objects according to type and location, and then sent them to the field laboratory. At the field laboratory, special care is taken to preserve the artifacts such as metal and wood. Water-soaked objects may crack and lose their shape if exposed to air. Therefore, they must be kept wet until specialists can preserve them.

Evaluating evidence:

Archaeologists evaluate evidence with the help of specialists from different fields. Zoologists help identify animal bones and butchering techniques. Botanists analyse seeds to learn about the ancient agricultural practices. Specialists like geologists, architects and engineers also work hand in hand with archaeologists. Computer specialists also help to speed up the evaluation process.