Chemical Analysis of Archaeological Soils of Piedras Negras, Guatemala

Authors

J. Jacob Parnell, Brigham Young University
Dr. Richard E. Terry, Brigham Young University

Keywords

chemical analysis, archaeological soils, Guatemala, Maya

College

Life Sciences

Department

Plant and Wildlife Sciences

Abstract

In the 1930’s, O. Arrhenius was contracted by a Swedish sugar beet company to test soil fertility levels for fertilizer applications. While testing a specific area, he realized a peculiar occurrence associated with phosphorus levels and an area of ancient habitation. Since that time, other studies have been completed on the relationship between the chemical signatures left in the soil and their relationship to activities of ancient inhabitants. The procedure of determining phosphate concentrations has been used to help delineate site boundaries, indicate agricultural areas, and interpret activity areas.

Recommended Citation

Parnell, J. Jacob and Terry, Dr. Richard E. (2014) "Chemical Analysis of Archaeological Soils of Piedras Negras, Guatemala," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 946.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/946