The Younger Futhark is a runic alphabet used primarily in Scandinavia during the Viking Age, roughly from the 9th to the 11th centuries. It evolved from the older Elder Futhark, which had 24 characters, but the Younger Futhark consists of only 16 runes. This reduction in symbols reflects changes in the language and writing practices of the time. The runes of the Younger Futhark were used for various purposes, including inscriptions on stones, wood, and metal. They were often associated with Norse mythology and were believed to hold magical properties. The alphabet is named after the first six runes: F, U, Þ, A, R, and K.