A scientific date is either absolute (specific to one point in time) or relative (younger or older than something else). Dendrochronology, or tree-ring dating, provides absolute dates in two different ways: directly, and by calibrating radiocarbon results.

Are tree rings absolute dating?

Absolute dating Originally used on southwestern pueblos, tree-ring dating uses sequences of growth rings to determine the date when the tree was first cut down. The use of this dating method has expanded to other regions and time periods. Historic houses may be dated through dendrochronology of wooden beams.

Is dendrochronology and absolute dating method?

Dendrochronology is a form of absolute dating that studies tree rings in order to form a chronological sequence of a specific area or region. Absolute dating methods require regular, repetitive processes that we can measure.

How accurate is counting tree rings?

Why Not Just Count the Rings? Ring-counting does not ensure the accurate dating of each individual ring. Numerous studies illustrate how ring-counting leads to incorrect conclusions drawn from inaccurate dating. Dendrochronologists demand the assignment of a single calendar year to a single ring.