What are the three types of excavation mentioned in archaeological practice?

The correct answer highlights the three distinct types of excavation practices in archaeology: planned, rescue, and accidental.

Planned excavation typically refers to carefully designed and executed digs intended to answer specific research questions or explore particular archaeological sites. Archaeologists prepare extensively, reviewing prior research and gathering all necessary permits and resources, which ensures a thorough investigation of the area.

Rescue excavation, also known as salvage excavation, occurs when archaeological sites are threatened by construction or other development activities. This type of excavation is time-sensitive, prompting archaeologists to systematically document and recover artifacts or structures before they are potentially destroyed or obscured.

The category of accidental excavation relates to unexpected discoveries, which occur when individuals, sometimes outside the field of archaeology, unintentionally uncover artifacts or features that necessitate archaeological assessment and perhaps subsequent excavation.

Understanding these three types is crucial for grasping how archaeological practices are shaped by both framework and urgency, as well as the broader implications for cultural heritage management.