Decode a tree’s life with the help of dendrochronology. What is dendrochronology? It’s the dating and study of a tree’s annual rings.
Dendrochronology: The Life of a Tree
There is so much to learn from a tree. Dendrochronology, or the study of a tree’s rings, can provide useful data from years past. A tree’s rings can help us understand environmental factors of the past, therefore assisting us with making better decisions for the future. Scientists and historians alike find the study of a tree’s rings useful for giving historical artifacts a timeline.
Counting the Rings: A Myth?
You may have head you can find the age of a tree by counting it’s rings. This is not completely true. Through numerous studies, dendrochronologists have discovered that counting a tree’s rings can lead to inaccurate conclusions. When searching for an accurate date, various techniques are required to “cross-date” artifacts and wood samples. Learn more about gathering information from tree rings with the UA Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research here.
What Trees Tell Us About Temperature
Trees are a great indicator of the Earth’s past climate and local environmental patterns. Scientists can even gather information about climate and temperature pre-dating climate documentation with the help of a very mature tree’s rings. Learn more about dendrochronology with this kid-friendly guide from NASA.
Did You Know: Tree rings grow wider in warm, wet years and appear thin during cold, dry years. If a tree has weathered stressful conditions like drought, a tree may have very limited growth during those years.
Fun Activity: Listen to a Tree
Have you ever wondered what tree rings would sound like when played like a record? You can listen on YouTube here.