Includes a discussion of solution chemistry, leading to the preparation of analytical standards for chemical analysis. It explains the calculation of errors in calibration procedures and the use of quality assurance procedures more generally.

Discusses the use of techniques based on the absorption of visible and near-visible light to identify the molecular species present in the sample. These techniques are also known as vibrational spectroscopy, since they involve the interaction of electromagnetic radiation around the visible wavelengths with the molecular bonding orbitals of the sample.

Gives a brief history of analytical chemistry, followed by a consideration of the special issues posed by the analysis of archaeological material. It also emphasizes the importance of quality assurance in analytical chemistry.

Gives the principles of inductively coupled plasma-spectrometry in all its various configurations – analysis of samples in solution and the solid state (via laser ablation) as well as optical and mass spectrometric detection. ICP techniques have become the industry standard following the decline of neutron activation analysis and are now routinely used in archaeology.

Introduces the technique of chromatography – the separation of molecules in a sample by passing it through a ‘sticky’ stationary phase – including liquid and gas chromatography with detection by conventional and various mass spectrometric techniques. Gives an introduction to organic residue analysis on visible and invisible residues in ceramics and, more recently, metals.

Introduces the structure of the atom (Bohr–Rutherford model) and shows how the electronic configuration of the atoms leads to the construction of the Periodic Table. It also discusses isotopes and natural radioactivity.

Introduces the electromagnetic spectrum and shows how different parts of it interact with solid materials. It includes a derivation of Beer’s law which allows the quantification of analytical measurements. It concludes with a discussion of synchrotron radiation, which provides highly collimated high intensity electromagnetic radiation across all wavelengths.

This volume serves as an introduction to the principles and applications of analytical chemistry to archaeological materials. Accessible to students without a comprehensive background in chemistry, it will enable them to draw meaningful interpretations from analytical data in order to facilitate a deeper understanding of the beliefs of people in the distant past. The second edition has been thoroughly revised to include the cutting-edge developments in analytical chemistry that have occurred over the last two decades. It offers a detailed explanation of the principles behind the analytical techniques, allowing archaeologists to appreciate the strengths and limitations of data generated through analysis of archaeological objects. The volume also includes interdisciplinary perspectives, showing how the interaction between a range of disciplines enables a deeper understanding of human behaviour and beliefs in the past. Importantly, the book provides basic information on laboratory procedures and safety that fosters an understanding of the practicalities of laboratory science.

Discusses the analytical techniques based on the interaction of X-rays with matter (X-ray fluorescence), or which produce characteristic X-rays (scanning electron microscope) from electron or other particle bombardment, which can also be used for imaging. It also describes the use of X-ray diffraction for pigment identification and discusses the issues arising from the use of portable XRF on archaeological material.