Final answer:
Strontium analysis of bones can reveal whether individuals lived in areas where agriculture was practiced or if they were part of nomadic societies. The analysis can provide evidence of the spread of agriculture and the transition to settled farming communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The analysis of strontium in bones can provide insights into the beginnings of agriculture in the Middle East. Strontium is a chemical element that can be used to trace the geographic origin of individuals. By analyzing the strontium isotope ratios in bone samples, archaeologists can determine whether the individuals lived in areas where agriculture was practiced or if they were part of nomadic hunter-gatherer societies.
For example, if the strontium isotope ratios in bones from a specific archaeological site indicate that the individuals were originally from regions where agriculture was developed, it suggests that agriculture was already established in that area. This can provide evidence for the spread of agricultural practices and the transition from hunter-gatherer lifestyles to settled farming communities.
On the other hand, if the strontium isotope ratios indicate that the individuals came from regions where agriculture was not practiced, it suggests that they were part of nomadic groups and did not have a dependence on agriculture. This can indicate that agriculture had not yet reached those areas or that the individuals were not involved in agricultural activities.