Module 3 Assignment 5
1. Discuss the different kinds of methods used to study preserved bodies (x-ray, CT scan, DNA testing, carbon dating) and the types of information they reveal. First you document its appearance with photographs, then X-ray the body completely. X-rays will reveal what is inside a wrapped mummy and the condition of the body. Sometimes more than one body has been found inside a wrapped mummy; other times an extra head or leg or even a baby has been discovered. X-rays may also reveal certain diseases or afflictions that the person suffered. By using x-rays, a scientist does not have to unwrap or undress the mummy. Conduct a dental examination
2. In addition to mummies, what other sources of information do we have about ancient civilizations?
3. Most Egyptian mummies were kings or queens or wealthy people. Hypothesize this reasoning. Well most burial took place just in sand, but kings and queens were buried in tombs suited for the comfort of their afterlife, for which they could afford.
4. Although many bodies were mummified long ago, relatively few mummies survive today. Consider why this is true. The constant changing of the Earth’s climates and weather causes many historical facts to be lost, or completely destroyed and never to be noticed sad to say.
5. People from many branches of science take part in mummy research. In addition to archaeologists, what types of scientists do you think study mummies? What do you think such scientists would hope to learn from mummies? I believe geneticist would be apart of the mummy research, because you’d want to know the genetics of the mummies.
6. Although mummies provide fascinating information, excavating mummy tombs can present problems. Consider what issues might arise when a mummy is removed from its burial site. The curse of the pharaohs refers to an alleged curse believed by some to be cast upon any person who disturbs the mummy of an Ancient Egyptian person, especially a pharaoh. This curse, which does not
2. In addition to mummies, what other sources of information do we have about ancient civilizations?
3. Most Egyptian mummies were kings or queens or wealthy people. Hypothesize this reasoning. Well most burial took place just in sand, but kings and queens were buried in tombs suited for the comfort of their afterlife, for which they could afford.
4. Although many bodies were mummified long ago, relatively few mummies survive today. Consider why this is true. The constant changing of the Earth’s climates and weather causes many historical facts to be lost, or completely destroyed and never to be noticed sad to say.
5. People from many branches of science take part in mummy research. In addition to archaeologists, what types of scientists do you think study mummies? What do you think such scientists would hope to learn from mummies? I believe geneticist would be apart of the mummy research, because you’d want to know the genetics of the mummies.
6. Although mummies provide fascinating information, excavating mummy tombs can present problems. Consider what issues might arise when a mummy is removed from its burial site. The curse of the pharaohs refers to an alleged curse believed by some to be cast upon any person who disturbs the mummy of an Ancient Egyptian person, especially a pharaoh. This curse, which does not