In archaeology, what does stratigraphy help to determine?

Stratigraphy is an essential method in archaeology that focuses on the layering of soil and sediments at a site. By examining these layers, archaeologists can establish the chronological sequence of deposits, which helps to understand the relative ages of artifacts and features found within those layers. Each layer represents a different period of time, reflecting changes in human activity and the environment. This method allows researchers to reconstruct the history of human occupation and the development of cultures over time, making it a crucial tool for interpreting archaeological contexts. The other options, while important aspects of archaeological study, do not directly relate to what stratigraphy analyzes.