In an Example of How Microscopic Evidence in Studying the Past

question 20

Multiple Choice

In an example of how microscopic evidence in studying the past can yield surprising results that may overturn long-held assumptions,Williamson's analysis of microscopic residues stuck to the edges of cutting tools found at a cave site in South Africa revealed that

• A) 50 percent of the residues were from plants, contradicting the prevailing assumption that such tools were used mainly to hunt and butcher animals.
• B) all of the residues were from butchered animals, but most of the butchering had been performed by women and not by men.
• C) 30 percent of the residues were from plants, suggesting a slow transition from vegetarian to carnivorous diets.
• D) 50 percent of the residues were from domesticated plants, pushing back the date of plant domestication from 10,000 to 40,000 years ago.
• E) 30 percent of the residues were from human flesh, suggesting cannibalism.

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Definitions:

Environmental Influences

External factors that can affect an individual's development, behavior, mood, and health, including social, cultural, and physical environmental aspects.

Success Rate

The proportion or percentage of attempts that result in success, often used in the context of surgical procedures, treatments, or other endeavors.

Sex

A biological categorization based on reproductive organs and functions, typically categorized as male or female.

Prediction

The act of forecasting or estimating future events based on current information or trends.