Dendroclimatology is the process of using tree rings to determine the past climate of the Earth. Scientists look at width to determine if the climate then fostered favorable conditions for growth. Scientists also looked at density, which can give better data than ring width. Tree rings have many advantages as climate proxies. Because tree’s have rings that are consistent markers of time, it is fairly easy to get precise dates. Furthermore, because tree rings respond to more than just temperature, they can be used to determine other aspects of past climate as well. Scientists collect tree rings, often using a handheld device, before bringing it into a lab to study and test. Scientists are able to determine things such as droughts, volcanic eruptions, and of course temperature.
To read more check out the wikipedia page here or this interesting case study!
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