Archaeological dating is a method used by scientists to determine the age of artifacts, structures, and other historical remains. This process helps researchers understand the timeline of human activity and the development of cultures. Two main types of dating are used: relative dating, which compares the age of objects based on their position in layers of soil, and absolute dating, which provides a specific age using techniques like radiocarbon dating. By analyzing materials such as pottery, bones, and tools, archaeologists can piece together the history of a site. This information is crucial for understanding past civilizations, including their lifestyles, technologies, and interactions with the environment.