Natural levels are preferable to arbitrary levels because:
A) arbitrary levels can potentially jumble together artifacts that come from different natural strata and thus different periods of time.
B) the depth of natural levels is determined by statistical sampling strategies, while arbitrary levels are chosen subjectively.
C) arbitrary levels follow the natural stratigraphy, which may not be able to distinguish between occupational surfaces.
D) natural levels are much simpler and faster to excavate than arbitrary levels.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Arbitrary levels, which are predetermined and uniform in thickness, can mix materials from different periods if they cut across natural layers or strata, leading to inaccurate interpretations of the archaeological record. Natural levels follow the actual layers of deposition, allowing for a more precise understanding of the sequence of human activity.

Natural Levels Are Preferable to Arbitrary Levels Because