Some limitations of dating methods
There is no single ideal method of dating that can produce accurate results for every kind of sample, in every context, for every chronology. Each method of dating has constraints around its use and effectiveness. Not all methods are well-suited for each situation – and sometimes it is just not possible to use a particular dating method.
Examples of some of the constraints of using a dating method include:
- the size of the sample
- the type of sample
- contamination of the sample
- the type of associated geo-archaeological materials
- the need to minimise destructive testing
- the chronologies involved