Chronometric dating, also known as chronometry or absolute dating, is any archaeological dating method that gives a result in calendar years before the present time. Archaeologists and scientists use absolute dating methods on samples ranging from prehistoric fossils to artifacts from relatively recent history.

Is dendrochronology a chronometric dating technique?

Dendrochronology. This chronometric technique is the most precise dating tool available to archaeologists who work in areas where trees are particularly responsive to annual variations in precipitation, such as the American Southwest.

What can Chronometric dating tell us?

Absolute, or chronometric dating methods reveal the age, measured in calendar years, of materials, objects or events. Chronometric dating methods (see Fig. 88) make use of a variety of physical or chemical measurements to ascertain the time when events occurred or when materials and objects were made, used, or altered.