If it takes less than 100 years for bones to dissolve in soil how do we find skeletons that are hundreds of thousands of years old
Bones are made of a protein called collagen and a mineral called hydroxyapatite. Collagen is the main structural protein in bones and it gives them their strength and flexibility. Hydroxyapatite is a calcium phosphate mineral that gives bones their hardness.
In most environments, bones will begin to decompose within a few years after death. The rate of decomposition will vary depending on the environment, but in general, bones will dissolve in soil within 100 years.
However, there are some conditions under which bones can survive for much longer periods of time. These conditions include:
- Dry environments: Bones will decompose more slowly in dry environments, such as deserts.
- Cold environments: Bones will also decompose more slowly in cold environments, such as the Arctic.
- Acidic environments: Bones will decompose more slowly in acidic environments, such as bogs.
- Burial: Bones that are buried underground will be protected from the elements and will decompose more slowly.
As a result of these conditions, it is possible to find skeletons that are hundreds of thousands of years old. These skeletons can provide valuable information about the evolution of humans and other animals.
Related Questions
- Why do bones decompose more slowly in dry environments?
- Dry environments lack the moisture necessary for bacteria to thrive, which slows down the decomposition process.
- How can bones survive in acidic environments?
- Acidic environments can dissolve the minerals in bones, but they can also prevent bacteria from growing, which slows down the decomposition process.
- What is the oldest known human skeleton?
- The oldest known human skeleton is the Omo I skeleton, which is 195,000 years old.
- How do scientists date skeletons?
- Scientists can date skeletons using a variety of methods, including radiocarbon dating, uranium-thorium dating, and amino acid racemization.
- What can skeletons tell us about human evolution?
- Skeletons can provide information about the size, shape, and proportions of our ancestors, as well as their lifestyle and environment.
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