Final answer:
To determine the location of an ancient temple, archaeologists c. study the land and excavate to find artifacts, using surveys and technology to identify potential sites before careful documentation and excavation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Determining the Location of an Ancient Temple
When archaeologists seek to determine where an ancient temple was built, the main step they take is c. study the land and digging for artifacts. This involves doing a survey of the area that might show signs of cultural debris or surface artifacts. Surveys can incorporate various technologies such as drones or satellite imagery to identify unusual topography that could indicate the presence of a temple.
Once potential indicators of a site are identified, a sampling of excavation units or test pits may be dug to assess the site's potential based on the artifacts found. The data, including GPS coordinates for all found items and features such as trails or roads, are rigorously documented. The process requires careful excavation and documentation using a grid system to ensure that the context of each artifact is maintained, thereby providing insight into the ancient society.