The process of flotation is based on the principle that:
A) the most appropriate screen size for recovering carbonized plant remains and bone fragments is 1/4" mesh.
B) carbonized plant remains and very small bone fragments will float when submerged in water, while heavier items (including dirt) will not.
C) artifact provenience is the most important information an archaeologist can record during an excavation.
D) All of the answers are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Flotation is a process used in archaeology to recover very small artifacts and plant remains from soil samples. It is based on the principle that when soil samples are submerged in water, lighter organic materials (such as carbonized plant remains and small bone fragments) will float to the surface, while heavier materials (like dirt and stones) will sink. This method allows archaeologists to separate and recover small artifacts and ecofacts that might otherwise be overlooked.

The Process of Flotation Is Based on the Principle That