Member-only story

Unveiling the Footprints of Time: Reading Prehistoric Human Tracks Methods and Materials

Deion Simmons

·7.5k Followers· Follow

Published in Reading Prehistoric Human Tracks: Methods Material

4 min read

166 View Claps

11 Respond

Save

Listen

The study of prehistoric human tracks offers us a unique glimpse into the lives and behavior of our ancient ancestors. These tracks, preserved in sediment and rock formations, provide invaluable insights into their locomotion, ecology, and social interactions. To unlock the secrets hidden within these tracks, researchers employ various methods and materials, each meticulously designed to decipher the stories they hold.

Methods of Prehistoric Human Track Analysis

1. Surface Mapping and Photography

The first step in studying prehistoric human tracks is thorough surface mapping and photography. Researchers carefully document the location, orientation, and overall distribution of tracks using techniques such as hand mapping, total station surveys, and aerial photography. This creates a comprehensive record of the track site, providing a foundation for further analysis.

Reading Prehistoric Human Tracks: Methods & Material

by Chase Hassen

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	62866 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	661 pages

2. Casting and Molding

To preserve and study tracks in detail, researchers often create casts and molds. Casts are made by pouring a liquid material, such as plaster or resin, into the track impression. Once set, the cast can be removed from the site, providing an exact replica of the original track. Molds are created by pressing a flexible material, like silicone, into the track. The mold can then be used to create multiple casts, allowing researchers to share and study the tracks widely.

3. Photogrammetry

Photogrammetry is a technique that uses multiple photographs to create a precise 3D model of the track. By capturing images from different angles, researchers can generate a highly detailed digital representation. This model allows for accurate measurements, comparisons, and visualization of the track's morphology.

4. Geomorphological Analysis

The surrounding geological context of prehistoric human tracks provides valuable information about the environment in which they were made. Geomorphological analysis examines the sediment type, grain size, and depositional features to determine the age, depositional processes, and potential post-depositional modifications that may have affected the tracks.

Materials for Prehistoric Human Track Analysis

The choice of materials used in prehistoric human track analysis depends on the specific method employed and the characteristics of the tracks themselves. Here are some commonly used materials:

1. Plaster and Resin

Plaster and resin are widely used for making casts of human tracks due to their ability to capture fine details and preserve the original morphology. They provide a durable and accurate representation of the track for further study.

2. Silicone

Silicone is a flexible material used for creating molds. It easily conforms to the contours of the track, allowing for highly precise casts. Silicone molds can be used multiple times to create additional casts as needed.

3. Hydrocal and Dental Stone

Hydrocal and dental stone are gypsum-based materials that provide excellent surface detail and high strength. They are ideal for making casts of tracks that are delicate or require fine-grained analysis.

4. Photogrammetry Equipment

Photogrammetry requires specialized equipment, including a DSLR camera, a sturdy tripod, and a software suite for image processing and model generation. The camera should have a high resolution and a wide dynamic range to capture all the necessary details.

The methods and materials used in the study of prehistoric human tracks are essential for unlocking the secrets of our ancestors' past. Through surface mapping, casting, photogrammetry, and geomorphological analysis, researchers meticulously document, preserve, and interpret these ancient footprints. The materials employed, from plaster and resin to silicone and photogrammetry equipment, play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy, detail, and preservation of the tracks. By harnessing these tools and techniques, we continue to expand our understanding of human evolution, migration, and behavior, one track at a time.

Reading Prehistoric Human Tracks: Methods & Material

by Chase Hassen

5 out of 5