Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) is a revolutionary technique used in archaeology for radiocarbon dating. Recent discoveries in Sivagalai, Tamil Nadu, India, have showcased the power of AMS in uncovering the secrets of the past. The technique has helped date 5,300-year-old Iron Age artifacts, including urns, tools, and other relics.
The findings in Sivagalai have provided valuable insights into the lives of ancient civilizations. The artifacts discovered include over 85 tools like axes, knives, chisels, swords, and arrowheads, dated between 2953 BCE–3345 BCE. These discoveries demonstrate advanced metallurgical skills, predating the Indus Valley civilization and showcasing mastery of Wootz steel.
The use of AMS in archaeology has opened up new avenues for understanding human history. By accurately dating artifacts, researchers can reconstruct the past with greater precision, gaining insights into the technological, social, and cultural developments of ancient civilizations.
As archaeologists continue to explore and discover new artifacts, the role of AMS in radiocarbon dating will remain crucial in uncovering the secrets of the past and shedding light on the mysteries of human history.