What does absolute dating refer to in archaeology?

Absolute dating in archaeology refers to a method that assigns specific chronological dates to artifacts, structures, or events, allowing for a clear timeline of historical context. This dating enables archaeologists to place objects on a calendar and understand the timeline of human activity with a high degree of precision. Techniques used in absolute dating include radiocarbon dating, dendrochronology, and thermoluminescence, among others, which provide a numerical age.

The other options focus on different aspects of archaeological research. Estimating the age of fossils pertains to paleontology rather than archaeology, as it often involves methods that are distinct from those used to date archaeological finds. Determining locations of archaeological sites relates to survey techniques rather than dating. Classifying ancient artifacts involves understanding their typology and context, but does not provide specific chronological dates in years. Thus, the focus of absolute dating as a method tied to specific years makes it the correct choice.