The correct answer is Option (2) → The lowest layers
Layers build up one on top of another, so generally the lowest layers are the oldest and the highest are the most recent.
NCERT (2026-27): “10.2 A new old civilisation …
Occupations are detected by traces of ancient materials found in layers, which differ from one another in colour, texture and the artefacts that are found in them. Abandonment or desertions, what are called “sterile layers”, can be identified by the absence of such traces. Generally, the lowest layers are the oldest and the highest are the most recent. The study of these layers is called stratigraphy. Artefacts found in layers can be assigned to specific cultural periods and can thus provide the cultural sequence for a site.” |
