What is stratigraphy concerned with?

Stratigraphy is fundamentally focused on the study of sequential layering of geological and cultural deposits. This branch of geology involves analyzing the different layers of sediment or soil, which can reveal a great deal about the chronological sequence in which various materials were deposited over time. By examining these layers, archaeologists and geologists can interpret the historical context of a site, understand past environments, and reconstruct activities and events that occurred at different times.

This method is crucial in archaeology, especially in sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum, where distinct layers represent different periods of human activity as well as natural events, such as volcanic eruptions. The ability to discern these layers allows researchers to establish timelines and understand the relationships between different artifacts, structures, and ecological conditions. Thus, selecting the option that focuses on the study of layering accurately captures the essence of stratigraphy and its significance in both geological and archaeological contexts.