Final answer:
The process of digging through layers of a site during an archaeological excavation is known as excavation and involves careful removal and analysis of soil and artifacts, following principles such as the law of superposition to establish chronological context.
Step-by-step explanation:
The name for digging through layers of a site in archaeology is known as excavation. Excavation involves carefully removing soil to uncover artifacts and features while documenting their locations within a grid system. When stratification is used, archaeologists look at the different layers of a site to understand the sequence and dates of human activity. The layers are known as strata and the principle that older layers are generally found below younger layers is the law of superposition. This method helps archaeologists to provide a chronological context for the artifacts and features they uncover.
Important techniques in archaeology include surveys, which may use technology such as drones, and cataloging, to record precise location and context of artifacts. Archaeological sites are prepared for excavation by using a grid system to divide the area, and artifacts found are given catalog numbers for future reference. Archaeologists utilize trowels and small tools such as toothbrushes for delicate excavation work, ensuring that the site and its artifacts are preserved as much as possible during the dig.