Tree-Ring Lab

A Tree-Ring Lab studies the rings found in the cross-section of a tree trunk. These rings, called growth rings, form annually as trees grow, providing clues about past climatic conditions, environmental changes, and tree lifespan. By examining the width, density, and other characteristics of each ring, scientists can reconstruct historical climate patterns, date archaeological wood, or study ecological shifts. The lab uses specialized equipment to analyze these rings in detail, helping us understand Earth's environmental history and how forests have responded to changes over time.