Basic aspects of science applied to archeology

Code: QUI12032L

6 ECTS

Duration: 15 weeks/156 hours

Scientific Area: Chemistry

Teaching languages: Portuguese, English

Languages of tutoring support: Portuguese, English

Regime de Frequência: Presencial

Sustainable Development Goals

1. Erradicar a pobreza - Acabar com a pobreza em todas as suas formas, em todos os lugares

4. Educação de qualidade - Assegurar a educação inclusiva, e equitativa e de qualidade, e promover oportunidades de aprendizagem ao longo da vida para todos.

5. Igualdade de género - Alcançar a igualdade de gênero e empoderar todas as mulheres e meninas.

8. Trabalho digno e crescimento económico - Promover o crescimento económico sustentado, inclusivo e sustentável, emprego pleno e produtivo, e trabalho decente para todos.

11. Cidades e comunidades sustentáveis - Tornar as cidades e os assentamentos humanos inclusivos, seguros, resilientes e sustentáveis.

Learning Goals

This course aims to bridge the gap between archaeology and science by integrating a
solid background in the physical and chemical aspects of the materials used in the
artefacts making, with an introduction to the scientific techniques used for their
analysis. More specifically, the course aims:
· To provide a wide-ranging and challenging introduction to the role of artefact
studies and materials analysis in modern archaeology.
· To encourage students to think about technology from an archaeological
informed perspective that focuses on how and why people make and use
artefacts and materials.
· To encourage an interdisciplinary approach to archaeological objects.

1. Basic concepts of physics and chemistry
1.1 Structure of matter: Atom, isotopes and molecules; chemical nomenclature
and formulas
1.2 Materials composition: major and minor and trace elements
1.3 Inorganic and organic materials- differences in chemical composition and
stability to burial
2. Archaeological materials
2.1 Lithics, rocks and stones chemical and mineralogical composition.
Identification of most used materials.
2.2 Clay and fired materials- structural clay materials and ceramics.
2.2.1 Chemical and mineralogical composition.
2.2.2 Physical and chemical alterations occurring during firing.
2.3 Sands and the production of glass
2.4 Pigments. Identification and characterization
2.5 Ores and Metals
2.5.1 Minerals, ore deposits and smelting
2.5.2 Metals and alloys degradation
2.6 Organic materials- nature and chemical composition
2.6.1 Ivory and bone
2.6.2 Amber and resins
2.6.3 Organic residues recovered from ceramics.
3. Dating archaeological materials.

Teaching Methods

Teaching will involve theoretical?practical classes, with a focus on the immediate connection between theoretical concepts and hands-on reality, involving the handling of archaeological artefacts. In the more theory-oriented classes, fundamental concepts and methodologies are presented and discussed in greater depth. The theoretical-practical sessions focus on applying these concepts to new situations and consolidating knowledge through guided exercises. Results from other experiments that discuss the same concepts are also used to foster critical analysis and self-confidence. Active learning is promoted through collaborative work, discussions, and continuous feedback.

Assessment

The continuous assessment is carried out through two tests that cover the knowledge acquired across the various types of classes. No minimum grade is required for any of the tests. The final grade for continuous assessment is calculated as the average of the two test grades, according to the formula below, and must be 9.5 or higher to pass the course unit.
The average grade will be calculated using the following formula:

Average grade of the tests =
(1/3 × Test_1) + (1/3 × Test_2) + (1/3 × Test_3)

Alternatively, students may take the final exam during the regular period.
All students are also eligible for the resit period.

Teaching Staff

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