Analysis of the strontium isotope ratios in the teeth of people buried at the Maya site of Copan has shown that:
A) many of the peasants suffered from malnutrition
B) maize was the most significant element of their diet
C) the Maya included fluoride rich foods in their diet
D) many of the rulers had not been born or raised in Copan

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Analysis of strontium isotope ratios in teeth can reveal information about where an individual grew up, as these ratios reflect the local geology of the region where a person was raised. The finding that many rulers at Copan had strontium isotope ratios different from those typical of the local area suggests that they were not originally from Copan, indicating a practice of political or social alliances through marriage or other means, bringing leaders from different regions. This method does not directly provide information about diet, malnutrition, or specific dietary components like fluoride.

Analysis of the Strontium Isotope Ratios in the Teeth of People