Final answer:
Dendrochronology is effective but has limitations including the necessity for certain tree species with clear annual rings, suitable preservation conditions for wood, and its applicability primarily to the recent past.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dendrochronology, also known as tree-ring dating, is a method of dating based on the analysis of patterns of tree rings. This technique has been used successfully in various parts of the world, such as at the Pueblo Bonita archaeological site. However, the use of dendrochronology has certain limiting factors which restrict its global application.
Firstly, tree species that are suitable for dendrochronological studies are not universally present. Trees with distinct annual rings are required, and these are typically found in temperate regions with distinct seasonal climates. In tropical regions, where there is less seasonal variation, tree rings may not be as well defined or may not form on an annual basis, rendering the method ineffective.
Furthermore, preservation conditions greatly affect the application of dendrochronology. For the method to work, wood must be preserved adequately to retain its rings. In many parts of the world, the climate or soil conditions are such that wood decomposes, leaving no material for dendrochronological analysis.
Lastly, the age range within which dendrochronology can be useful is also a limiting factor. It is most effective for dating wood from the recent past to about the last 11,000 years. Historical records and other dating methods such as radiocarbon dating are often employed in tandem with dendrochronology to provide a more accurate picture of an artefact's age.