
A Field Guide to Geophysics in Archaeology Softcover reprint of hardcover 1st ed. 2009 Edition
Author(s): John Oswin (Author)
- Publisher: Springer
- Publication Date: November 22, 2010
- Edition: Softcover reprint of hardcover 1st ed. 2009
- Language: English
- Print length: 239 pages
- ISBN-10: 3642095399
- ISBN-13: 9783642095399
Book Description
Geophysics operations in archaeology have become well known through exposure on television. However, the technique is presented as the action of specialists and something of a mystery, where people walk about with strange contraptions, and results appear from a computer. This is not the case, however. Some scientific knowledge is needed in order to understand how the machines work and what they detect but otherwise it is only necessary to know how to handle the instruments, how to survey a field and how to interpret the computer results. This book provides all the relevant information. It explains geophysics operations in archaeology, describes the science that gives the soil properties to measure and the means by which the instruments make their measurements.
Dr John Oswin is in charge of the geophysics operation of the Bath and Camerton Archaeological Society and his work has recently been the subject of a television programme. He has taught many students how to use geophysical equipment.
Editorial Reviews
Review
From the reviews: “In his new work, Oswin (head, geophysics operations, Bath and Camerton Archaeological Society, UK) provides an excellent introduction to geophysics as applied to archaeological survey. … The appendixes are also quite useful as ‘user manuals’ for four common instruments and three popular data processing software programs. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All levels.” (L. D. Frame, Choice, Vol. 47 (5), January, 2010)
From the Back Cover
This unique work examines the science of geophysics operations in archaeology and gives non-specialist students both the confidence and the competence to set up and carry out their own surveys.
A Field Guide to Geophysics in Archaeology Softcover reprint of hardcover 1st ed. 2009 Edition
• explains the processes involved in clear and accessible language;
• gives a step-by-step guide to setting up and carrying out a survey;
• demonstrates the application of science to instruments;
• gives examples of results of surveys and shows how to interpret
them;
• explains soil conditions measured by the techniques and relates
them to archaeological features.
With many illustrations to explain the text and techniques, this book will be an invaluable resource for specialists and non-specialists in archaeological geophysics alike.
About the Author
John Oswin graduated in physics in 1974, but by then already had a keen interest in archaeology, and several years experience of excavation. After 30 years career as a specialist in underwater sound, he has returned to archaeology with the Bath and Camerton Archaeological Society and has taken on their geophysics operation. His work over the past four years is now gaining recognition for its thoroughness and large area coverage, nd has been the subject of a Channel 4 ‘Time Team’ programme. He has also taught many students attending training excavations how to use geophysical equipment. John is an amateur archaeologist, but believes very strongly that amateurs have an important role to play, which is complementary to that of the professionals.
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