Chapter 4 Themes Of Anthropology: Culture
This is a practice test I am doing for myself, I mean no copyright infringement and this is just for personal testing of my knowledge.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
The behavior of a dog learning commands shares all the following characteristics with a cultural behavior EXCEPT:
- A.
It is acquired extragenetically
- B.
It involves ideas
- C.
It can be shared with other members of the same species
- D.
It can generate generalizations
Correct Answer
C. It can be shared with other members of the same speciesExplanation
The behavior of a dog learning commands is not shared with other members of the same species. While cultural behavior can be passed down from one generation to another within a species, the learning of commands by a dog is typically specific to the individual dog and its interactions with its human owner or trainer. Other members of the same species may learn commands through their own individual experiences and interactions.Rate this question:
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- 2.
When we say that culture is shared "extragenetically" we mean it:
- A.
Involves more than one gene (that is, "extra" genes)
- B.
It is transmitted by something other than genes
- C.
It has to rely on inheritance to be shared
- D.
There is something in addition to genes involved in its sharing
Correct Answer
B. It is transmitted by something other than genesExplanation
Culture being shared "extragenetically" means that it is transmitted by something other than genes. This suggests that culture is not solely dependent on genetic inheritance, but rather it is passed down through social learning, communication, and imitation. It implies that culture can be acquired and shared by individuals who are not biologically related, highlighting the importance of social interactions and environmental factors in the transmission of cultural traits.Rate this question:
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- 3.
An artifact is:
- A.
Any manufactured item
- B.
An work of art
- C.
Only something made by a human
- D.
Something that has been consciously manufactured
Correct Answer
D. Something that has been consciously manufacturedExplanation
An artifact is something that has been consciously manufactured. This means that it is intentionally created by a human, rather than occurring naturally or by chance. It implies that thought, skill, and effort have been put into its creation. This definition differentiates artifacts from other manufactured items, as it emphasizes the conscious intention behind their production. While an artifact can be a work of art, not all artifacts are necessarily considered art. The term "artifact" encompasses a wide range of objects that have been deliberately made by humans.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What is the most accurate statement regarding cultural behavior?
- A.
It is possessed only by humans
- B.
It is possessed to some extent by all animals
- C.
It is the sole property of Homo sapiens
- D.
It characterizes some behaviors of some other primates
Correct Answer
D. It characterizes some behaviors of some other primatesExplanation
Cultural behavior is not solely limited to humans but can also be observed in some behaviors of other primates. This suggests that cultural behavior is not exclusive to Homo sapiens and can be found in certain aspects of behavior exhibited by other primate species.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The food washing of the Japanese macaques has all the characteristics of culture EXCEPT:
- A.
Learned behavior
- B.
Involves abstractions and generalizations
- C.
Is shared extragenetically
- D.
Involves artifacts
Correct Answer
D. Involves artifactsExplanation
The food washing behavior of Japanese macaques has all the characteristics of culture except for involving artifacts. Artifacts refer to objects or tools that are created and used by a group, and in this case, the macaques do not use any specific tools or objects while washing their food. The behavior is considered a learned behavior, as it is passed down from generation to generation, involves abstractions and generalizations as the macaques learn to wash certain types of food, and is shared extragenetically, meaning it is transmitted socially rather than genetically.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The food washing of the Japanese macaques can be considered:
- A.
Cultural
- B.
Noncultural
- C.
Protocultural
- D.
Instinctive
Correct Answer
C. ProtoculturalExplanation
The behavior of food washing in Japanese macaques can be considered protocultural because it is a learned behavior that is passed down through generations, but it is not as complex or widespread as cultural behavior. Protocultural behavior refers to the early stages of cultural development, where certain behaviors are shared within a group but may not be fully developed cultural traditions. In the case of the Japanese macaques, food washing is a behavior that is specific to certain groups of macaques and is not observed in all individuals of the species.Rate this question:
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- 7.
It could be said that culture has a biological basis. This is because:
- A.
It is a genetic trait
- B.
The potential for it is in the structure and function of our brains
- C.
Cultural behaviors are basically instinctive
- D.
All cultural behaviors derive from some past biological behavior
Correct Answer
B. The potential for it is in the structure and function of our brainsExplanation
Culture has a biological basis because the potential for it is in the structure and function of our brains. This suggests that our brains are wired in a way that allows us to develop and engage in cultural behaviors. It implies that culture is not solely a result of genetic traits or instinctive behaviors, but rather a product of the capabilities and capacities of our brain. Additionally, the statement implies that cultural behaviors have evolved from past biological behaviors, further emphasizing the biological basis of culture.Rate this question:
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- 8.
MacLean's triune brain model says that:
- A.
The brain comes in three independent parts
- B.
As the brain evolved new parts took over from old ones
- C.
Brain evolution involves new parts interacting with old ones
- D.
Old parts of our brains are present but are now inactive
Correct Answer
C. Brain evolution involves new parts interacting with old onesExplanation
MacLean's triune brain model suggests that brain evolution involves new parts interacting with old ones. This means that as the brain evolved over time, new parts developed and integrated with existing structures rather than completely replacing them. This model emphasizes the idea that different parts of the brain have different functions and evolved at different times in evolutionary history. It suggests that the brain is composed of interconnected regions that work together to perform various cognitive and behavioral functions.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which part of the triune brain is involved with basic self-preservation functions?
- A.
R-complex
- B.
Medulla
- C.
Limbic system
- D.
Neocortex
Correct Answer
A. R-complexExplanation
The R-complex is the correct answer because it is the oldest and most primitive part of the brain, responsible for basic survival functions such as aggression, territoriality, and instinctual behaviors. It controls essential functions like breathing, heart rate, and digestion, ensuring the body's self-preservation. The medulla, limbic system, and neocortex are also important parts of the brain, but they are not specifically associated with basic self-preservation functions.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which part of the triune brain is involved with strong emotions, sex, and smell?
- A.
R-complex
- B.
Medulla
- C.
Limbic system
- D.
Neocortex
Correct Answer
C. Limbic systemExplanation
The limbic system is involved with strong emotions, sex, and smell. It is responsible for regulating emotions and behaviors related to survival, such as fear, aggression, and sexual behavior. It also plays a role in processing and interpreting smells. The limbic system includes structures such as the amygdala, hippocampus, and hypothalamus, which are all involved in emotional and instinctual responses.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which part of the triune brain is involved with deliberation, spatial reasoning, vision and hearing, and the exchange of information between brain and body?
- A.
R-complex
- B.
Medulla
- C.
Limbic system
- D.
Neocortex
Correct Answer
D. NeocortexExplanation
The neocortex is the part of the brain that is involved with deliberation, spatial reasoning, vision and hearing, and the exchange of information between the brain and body. It is the most recently evolved part of the brain and is responsible for higher cognitive functions such as problem-solving, language, and decision-making. The neocortex is divided into different regions that specialize in different functions, allowing for complex processing and integration of information.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which is true of the neocortex?
- A.
Only humans have one
- B.
It has taken over all important brain functions in humans
- C.
Humans have the largest neocortex
- D.
Only primates have one
Correct Answer
C. Humans have the largest neocortexExplanation
The neocortex is the most developed part of the brain and is responsible for higher cognitive functions such as language, reasoning, and problem-solving. It is found in all mammals, but humans have the largest neocortex compared to other species. This larger neocortex is believed to be responsible for our advanced cognitive abilities and complex social behaviors. Therefore, the statement "humans have the largest neocortex" is true.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A society's basic set of assumptions about its world is known as its:
- A.
Religion
- B.
Legal system
- C.
Philosophy
- D.
World view
Correct Answer
D. World viewExplanation
A society's basic set of assumptions about its world is known as its world view. This refers to the overall perspective or belief system that a society holds, encompassing its values, beliefs, and attitudes towards various aspects of life such as nature, human existence, morality, and the universe. It influences how individuals within the society perceive and interpret the world around them, shaping their behavior, decisions, and interactions with others. A society's world view can be influenced by various factors such as culture, religion, history, and social norms.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The world view of a society is based on its people's collective response to and interpretation of:
- A.
Their religion and ethical/philosophical system
- B.
The natural environment
- C.
The cultural environment
- D.
The interaction of the natural and cultural environments
Correct Answer
D. The interaction of the natural and cultural environmentsExplanation
The world view of a society is shaped by the interaction of the natural and cultural environments. This means that people's perception and understanding of the world are influenced by both the physical surroundings and the social and cultural factors within their society. The natural environment, such as the geography, climate, and resources, can impact how people live and adapt to their surroundings. The cultural environment, including beliefs, values, traditions, and social structures, also plays a significant role in shaping people's worldview. It is through the interaction of these two environments that individuals develop their collective response and interpretation of the world.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What is the relationship between world view and religion?
- A.
They are essentially the same
- B.
Religion is the means used to formalize, talk about, and share world view
- C.
World view derives from a society's religious beliefs
- D.
World view is a primitive form of religion
Correct Answer
B. Religion is the means used to formalize, talk about, and share world viewExplanation
Religion serves as a tool to formalize, discuss, and exchange worldviews. It provides a structured framework for individuals to understand and interpret their beliefs about the world and their place in it. Through religious practices, rituals, and teachings, people can articulate and communicate their worldview to others within their religious community. Religion acts as a means to express and share one's worldview, allowing individuals to connect with others who may hold similar beliefs and values. Therefore, the relationship between world view and religion is that religion serves as a medium to formalize, discuss, and share one's worldview.Rate this question:
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- 16.
When we say that a cultural system is "integrated" we mean:
- A.
A culture operates as a system of interrelated parts
- B.
All races possess culture
- C.
Culture is intimately connected to and derived from biology
- D.
Once established a cultural system never changes
Correct Answer
A. A culture operates as a system of interrelated partsExplanation
When we say that a cultural system is "integrated," it means that a culture operates as a system of interrelated parts. This implies that various aspects of a culture, such as beliefs, values, customs, and practices, are interconnected and influence each other. This interconnectedness allows for the smooth functioning and coherence of a culture as a whole. It also suggests that changes in one aspect of a culture can have ripple effects on other aspects, highlighting the dynamic nature of cultural systems.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which best describes the world view of the Eskimo (at least prior to European contact)?
- A.
They felt in scientific control over their world
- B.
They felt completely at the mercy of the natural environment
- C.
They felt their world was under absolute control of a single, all-powerful god
- D.
They felt they were one with the environment, with limited, tenuous control
Correct Answer
D. They felt they were one with the environment, with limited, tenuous controlExplanation
The Eskimo worldview was characterized by a sense of unity with the environment and a belief in limited control over it. They did not view themselves as having scientific control over their world or being completely at the mercy of the natural environment. Nor did they believe that their world was under the absolute control of a single, all-powerful god. Instead, they saw themselves as interconnected with and having some influence over their surroundings, but recognized the fragility and uncertainty of their control.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The Eskimo are polytheistic which means:
- A.
The people have many different religious beliefs
- B.
Different people worship different supernatural beings
- C.
The culture recognizes multiple supernatural beings
- D.
The people have migrated from many different cultural backgrounds
Correct Answer
C. The culture recognizes multiple supernatural beingsExplanation
The Eskimo being polytheistic means that their culture recognizes and believes in multiple supernatural beings. This suggests that they have a diverse pantheon of gods or spirits that they worship and attribute power to. This belief system is different from monotheism, where only one god is acknowledged, and it also indicates that the Eskimo may have a complex and varied religious landscape.Rate this question:
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- 19.
The world view of farmers from Southwest Asia changed because:
- A.
Their natural environment changed drastically
- B.
They stopped believing in multiple gods
- C.
There was a cultural change in their relationship with the environment
- D.
Christianity was founded
Correct Answer
C. There was a cultural change in their relationship with the environmentExplanation
The correct answer is that there was a cultural change in their relationship with the environment. This suggests that the farmers from Southwest Asia experienced a shift in their attitudes and behaviors towards their natural surroundings. It implies that they started to view and interact with their environment in a different way, possibly leading to changes in their agricultural practices, land use, or resource management. This cultural change could have been influenced by various factors such as technological advancements, social developments, or ideological shifts within the community.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Which best describes the world view of Southwest Asian societies after the invention of food producing techniques?
- A.
They felt at the mercy of the natural environment
- B.
They felt they were one with the environment, with limited, tenuous control
- C.
They felt a sense of control over the environment
- D.
They felt under the control of a pantheon of gods and other supernatural beings
Correct Answer
C. They felt a sense of control over the environmentExplanation
After the invention of food producing techniques, Southwest Asian societies felt a sense of control over the environment. This suggests that they were able to manipulate and manage their surroundings to ensure a stable food supply. This sense of control implies a level of mastery over the natural world, indicating that they had developed techniques and strategies to mitigate the uncertainties and challenges posed by the environment.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The religions that arose in food producing Southwest Asia can be described as monotheistic. This means that:
- A.
They recognized one supreme being over which humans had no control
- B.
They recognized one supreme being over which humans had limited influence
- C.
Everyone in that region held the same religious beliefs
- D.
All cultures in that region descended from the same cultural source
Correct Answer
B. They recognized one supreme being over which humans had limited influenceExplanation
The correct answer is "they recognized one supreme being over which humans had limited influence." This means that the religions in food producing Southwest Asia believed in the existence of one all-powerful deity, but also acknowledged that humans had limited control or influence over this supreme being. This suggests a belief in a higher power that is beyond human control and emphasizes the limitations of human influence in the face of this supreme being.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which of the following is NOT an aspect of the worldview of modern America?
- A.
Value placed on individualism
- B.
Expectation and value of change
- C.
Importance of size
- D.
Stress on conformity to a single set of cultural norms
Correct Answer
D. Stress on conformity to a single set of cultural normsExplanation
The correct answer is "stress on conformity to a single set of cultural norms." This aspect is not typically associated with the worldview of modern America. In fact, modern America tends to value individualism, embrace change, and place importance on size. However, it does not prioritize conformity to a single set of cultural norms, as America is known for its diversity and acceptance of different cultures and lifestyles.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The point of the necktie story is:
- A.
Some cultural phenomena can't be explained
- B.
Not all societies symbolize status differences
- C.
All cultural features are related to a society's world view
- D.
Clothing styles are an important reflection of a society's history
Correct Answer
C. All cultural features are related to a society's world viewExplanation
The point of the necktie story is that all cultural features are related to a society's world view. The story suggests that even something as seemingly insignificant as a necktie can have cultural significance and reflect the values and beliefs of a society. It implies that cultural features are not random or arbitrary, but rather are connected to the way a society perceives and understands the world.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which is NOT a reason that archaeology, of all the subfields of anthropology, is the most distinct?
- A.
It is the oldest formal specialty
- B.
It is essentially the popular activity of art collecting
- C.
It involves special problems of collection and analysis
- D.
It involves a specialized set of skills and techniques
Correct Answer
B. It is essentially the popular activity of art collectingExplanation
Archaeology being the oldest formal specialty, involving special problems of collection and analysis, and requiring a specialized set of skills and techniques are all valid reasons why it is the most distinct subfield of anthropology. However, the statement that it is essentially the popular activity of art collecting is not a reason for its distinctiveness. This is because archaeology goes beyond simply collecting art and involves the study of material culture, human behavior, and societal development through the analysis of artifacts and other archaeological remains.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The designs of old New England gravestones are most directly a reflection of:
- A.
Religious belief
- B.
Political atmosphere
- C.
The state or colony in which they were made
- D.
The specific time period involved
Correct Answer
A. Religious beliefExplanation
The designs of old New England gravestones are most directly a reflection of religious belief. This is because the gravestones often feature religious symbols and imagery, such as angels, crosses, and biblical verses. These designs were meant to convey the deceased's faith and provide comfort to their loved ones. Additionally, Puritan beliefs, which were prevalent in New England during this time period, heavily influenced the designs of the gravestones. The Puritans placed a strong emphasis on the afterlife and the importance of religious devotion, which is reflected in the religious motifs found on the gravestones.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Historical archaeology refers to the study of:
- A.
The science of history
- B.
Societies with out written records
- C.
Societies with written records
- D.
Very recent societies
Correct Answer
C. Societies with written recordsExplanation
Historical archaeology refers to the study of societies with written records. This field of archaeology focuses on the investigation and interpretation of material remains from societies that have a documented history. By analyzing artifacts, structures, and other physical evidence, historical archaeologists can gain insights into the daily lives, social structures, and cultural practices of these societies. This is in contrast to prehistoric archaeology, which studies societies that did not have written records.Rate this question:
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- 27.
When we interpret some archaeological data by observing similar artifacts in use among living cultures, we call it:
- A.
The ethnographic present
- B.
Cultural relativity
- C.
Ethnocentrism
- D.
Ethnographic analogy
Correct Answer
D. Ethnographic analogyExplanation
Ethnographic analogy refers to the practice of interpreting archaeological data by observing similar artifacts in use among living cultures. This approach allows researchers to make inferences about the past based on the behaviors and practices of present-day societies. By comparing and drawing parallels between the artifacts and practices of different cultures, archaeologists can gain insights into the past and understand how certain objects may have been used or understood in ancient societies.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Sir Mortimer Wheeler was able to tell the order of events that took place at Maiden Castle largely through:
- A.
Reading written accounts by the Romans
- B.
The use of stratigraphic relationships
- C.
Reading written accounts by the people of Maiden Castle
- D.
Collecting old folk tales in Britain
Correct Answer
B. The use of stratigraphic relationshipsExplanation
Sir Mortimer Wheeler was able to determine the order of events at Maiden Castle through the use of stratigraphic relationships. Stratigraphy is the study of rock layers and their sequence, which can provide valuable information about the chronological order of events. By examining the different layers and their relative positions, Wheeler was able to establish a timeline of the activities and occupations that occurred at Maiden Castle. This method does not rely on written accounts or folk tales, but rather on the physical evidence found in the layers of earth.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Experimental archaeology refers to:
- A.
Techniques that are new and still being tested
- B.
The phase of archaeology where hypotheses are examined
- C.
The reconstruction of ancient skills and technologies
- D.
The use of real scientific equipment in archaeology
Correct Answer
C. The reconstruction of ancient skills and technologiesExplanation
Experimental archaeology refers to the process of reconstructing ancient skills and technologies through practical experimentation. This involves replicating ancient tools, techniques, and materials in order to gain a better understanding of how they were used and the knowledge and abilities of ancient peoples. It allows archaeologists to test hypotheses and theories about the past by physically recreating and engaging with ancient practices. This hands-on approach helps to bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing valuable insights into the past.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which best describes the overall goal of archaeology?
- A.
To reconstruct ancient events like the battle at Maiden Castle
- B.
To collect and display ancient artifacts and art objects
- C.
To reconstruct past cultural systems
- D.
To study prehistoric rocks and fossils
Correct Answer
C. To reconstruct past cultural systemsExplanation
The overall goal of archaeology is to reconstruct past cultural systems. This involves studying ancient societies, their customs, beliefs, and social structures through the examination of artifacts, structures, and other archaeological evidence. By analyzing these remnants of the past, archaeologists can gain insights into how different cultures lived, interacted, and evolved over time. The goal is not just to collect and display artifacts or study rocks and fossils, but to understand the broader cultural context in which these objects existed.Rate this question:
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- 31.
If an archaeological site is not already visible or recorded, how do archaeologists even know where to begin looking?
- A.
They use aerial photography
- B.
They dig lots of test pits until they find something
- C.
They go to old records like deeds
- D.
They decide, using logic, where people would have lived
Correct Answer
D. They decide, using logic, where people would have livedExplanation
Archaeologists decide where to begin looking for an archaeological site by using logic to determine where people would have lived. They consider factors such as proximity to water sources, fertile land, and suitable terrain for settlement. By analyzing the surrounding landscape and understanding human behavior, archaeologists can make educated guesses about potential locations of ancient settlements. This approach helps narrow down the search area and increases the chances of discovering hidden archaeological sites.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Test pits are used to:
- A.
Locate a promising area to excavate further
- B.
Determine if a potential site is a site and to decide exactly where to dig
- C.
Recover the artifacts from a site
- D.
Spread out the excavators so they do the least damage
Correct Answer
B. Determine if a potential site is a site and to decide exactly where to digExplanation
Test pits are used to determine if a potential site is indeed a site and to decide exactly where to dig. Test pits are small excavations that are dug in specific areas of interest to gather information about the underlying soil, sediment, and artifacts. By examining the materials and artifacts found in these test pits, archaeologists can assess the potential of the site and make informed decisions about where to focus their excavations. Test pits help in reducing the risk of damaging valuable artifacts by providing valuable preliminary information before the main excavation begins.Rate this question:
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- 33.
In terms of anthropological value, the single most important aspect of an archaeological dig is:
- A.
Making sure to recover all the artifacts
- B.
Complete and accurate record-keeping
- C.
Establishing an accurate grid system
- D.
Cleaning and preserving the artifacts
Correct Answer
B. Complete and accurate record-keepingExplanation
Complete and accurate record-keeping is the most important aspect of an archaeological dig in terms of anthropological value because it allows researchers to document and analyze the context, location, and relationships of artifacts. This information is crucial for understanding the cultural significance and historical context of the artifacts, as well as for future research and interpretation. Without proper record-keeping, valuable information could be lost and the artifacts' true meaning and significance may remain unknown.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Which of the following is used to establish horizontal control at a site?
- A.
Grid system
- B.
Natural stratigraphy of the soil
- C.
Techniques of statistical sampling
- D.
Digging down in layers of only a few centimeters at a time
Correct Answer
A. Grid systemExplanation
A grid system is used to establish horizontal control at a site. This involves dividing the site into a series of squares or rectangles, with each square or rectangle representing a specific unit of measurement. This allows for accurate mapping and measurement of the site, ensuring that all areas are accounted for and properly documented. The grid system provides a systematic approach to data collection and analysis, making it an effective method for establishing horizontal control at a site.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which of the following is used to establish vertical control at a site?
- A.
Grid system
- B.
Natural stratigraphy of the soil or stratigraphy of the site itself
- C.
Techniques of statistical sampling
- D.
Test pits
Correct Answer
B. Natural stratigraphy of the soil or stratigraphy of the site itselfExplanation
Natural stratigraphy refers to the layers of soil or sediment that have been deposited over time. By studying the natural stratigraphy of a site, archaeologists or geologists can establish vertical control, meaning they can determine the relative depths and positions of different layers or features within the site. This helps in understanding the chronological sequence of events and the context of artifacts or other archaeological remains. Using the natural stratigraphy allows for accurate interpretation and analysis of the site's history and development.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Relative dating refers to:
- A.
A specific date, in number of years ago
- B.
A date established based on a known date
- C.
An uncertain date
- D.
a date that can only be established using certain techniques
Correct Answer
B. A date established based on a known dateExplanation
Relative dating refers to a date established based on a known date. It is a method used in archaeology and geology to determine the age of artifacts or geological events by comparing them to other objects or events that have already been dated. This technique does not provide an exact age in number of years ago, but it allows researchers to place objects or events in a relative chronological order. By comparing the similarities and differences between different objects or events, relative dating helps to establish a sequence of events or a timeline.Rate this question:
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- 37.
A common method of relative dating is:
- A.
Radiocarbon
- B.
Potassium/argon
- C.
Use of historical records
- D.
Stratigraphic relationships
Correct Answer
D. Stratigraphic relationshipsExplanation
Stratigraphic relationships is a common method of relative dating. This involves studying the layers of rock or sedimentary deposits and determining the order in which they were formed. The principle of superposition states that in an undisturbed sequence of rock layers, the oldest rocks are at the bottom and the youngest are at the top. By analyzing the position of fossils or artifacts within these layers, scientists can determine their relative age and establish a chronological sequence of events. This method is widely used in archaeology, geology, and paleontology to date and interpret the past.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The radiocarbon dating technique can be used to date:
- A.
Only rocks
- B.
Organic remains back to the beginnings of life
- C.
Organic remains back to about 60,000 years ago
- D.
Only bone material, but as far back as the dinosaur period
Correct Answer
C. Organic remains back to about 60,000 years agoExplanation
The radiocarbon dating technique can be used to date organic remains back to about 60,000 years ago. This is because radiocarbon dating relies on measuring the amount of carbon-14, a radioactive isotope, in organic materials. Carbon-14 has a half-life of about 5,730 years, which means it decays over time. By measuring the amount of carbon-14 remaining in a sample, scientists can estimate how long ago the organism died. However, after about 60,000 years, there is not enough carbon-14 left to accurately measure, so radiocarbon dating is not reliable for dating organic remains older than that.Rate this question:
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- 39.
The half-life of radioactive carbon (carbon 14) is:
- A.
1.31 billion years
- B.
60,000 years
- C.
5730 years
- D.
12,000 years
Correct Answer
C. 5730 yearsExplanation
The correct answer is 5730 years. This is because the half-life of radioactive carbon (carbon 14) is the time it takes for half of the radioactive carbon atoms in a sample to decay. In the case of carbon 14, it takes approximately 5730 years for half of the atoms to decay.Rate this question:
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- 40.
If a specimen contains one-eighth the living amount of radiocarbon, it is probably around ______________ years old.
- A.
5730
- B.
11,460
- C.
17,190
- D.
22,920
Correct Answer
C. 17,190Explanation
If a specimen contains one-eighth the living amount of radiocarbon, it is probably around 17,190 years old. This is because radiocarbon has a half-life of approximately 5730 years, meaning that after 5730 years, half of the radiocarbon in a living organism will have decayed. Therefore, if a specimen has one-eighth of the amount of radiocarbon compared to a living organism, it suggests that three half-lives have passed, which is equivalent to 3 x 5730 = 17,190 years.Rate this question:
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- 41.
Potassium/argon dating can be used to directly date:
- A.
Only organic remains
- B.
All mineral remains
- C.
Rocks of volcanic origin
- D.
Sea shells and similar fossils
Correct Answer
C. Rocks of volcanic originExplanation
Potassium/argon dating is a radiometric dating method that relies on the decay of potassium-40 to argon-40. This technique can only be used to directly date rocks of volcanic origin because volcanic rocks contain potassium and argon. When the rock is formed, the potassium-40 begins to decay, and over time, it gradually transforms into argon-40. By measuring the ratio of potassium-40 to argon-40 in the rock, scientists can determine its age. This dating method is not applicable to organic remains, mineral remains, sea shells, or similar fossils as they do not contain potassium.Rate this question:
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- 42.
The half-life or radioactive potassium is:
- A.
1.31 billion years
- B.
60,000 years
- C.
5730 years
- D.
12,000 years
Correct Answer
A. 1.31 billion yearsExplanation
The correct answer is 1.31 billion years. This is the half-life of radioactive potassium, which means that it takes 1.31 billion years for half of the radioactive potassium to decay. This is a very long time compared to the other options provided, indicating that radioactive potassium has a very slow rate of decay.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Lucy was dated using potassium/argon. But this is really an example of:
- A.
Absolute dating using K/Ar
- B.
Absolute dating using radiocarbon
- C.
Relative dating using stratigraphic relationships
- D.
Relative dating using historical records
Correct Answer
C. Relative dating using stratigraphic relationshipsExplanation
The given answer is incorrect. The method of dating Lucy using potassium/argon is an example of absolute dating using K/Ar. Relative dating using stratigraphic relationships involves determining the age of a fossil or artifact by comparing its position in layers of sedimentary rock.Rate this question:
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