The correct option is 1 only
Explanation
Stratigraphy in archaeology is the study of layers (strata) of deposits that make up an archaeological site, particularly a mound. It is based on the geological Law of Superposition, which helps establish a relative chronology of the site's occupation.
Statement 1 is Correct:
According to the principle of stratigraphy, in an undisturbed sequence of layers, the lowest layers are the oldest and the layers accumulate upwards over time. Therefore, the upper layers represent more recent periods of habitation, while the deeper layers represent earlier periods.
Statement 2 is Incorrect:
A sterile layer refers to a layer of soil or sediment that contains no archaeological remains (such as pottery, tools, or charcoal). It usually indicates a period during which the site was abandoned or unoccupied. A layer with an "abundance of pottery shards" would be classified as a habitation or cultural layer, not a sterile one.
Key Takeaway:
Archaeological stratigraphy dictates that lower layers are chronologically older (Law of Superposition), and sterile layers are devoid of human artifacts, marking gaps in settlement history.