Dendrochronology (or tree-ring dating) is the scientific method of dating tree rings (also called growth rings) to the exact year they were formed. A trees growth rate changes in a predictable pattern throughout the year in response to seasonal climate changes, resulting in visible growth rings.

How do tree rings indicate age?

Tree Rings Indicate Age of the Tree Growth slows down at the end of summer, which creates smaller walls and darker colored wood. A one-year cycle is comprised of a light pale wood that grew at the start of the year and a dark wood that grew at the end of the year. Count the dark rings, and you will get the trees age.

What do black tree rings mean?

The light-colored rings represent wood that grew in the spring and early summer, while the dark rings represent wood that grew in the late summer and fall. One light ring plus one dark ring equals one year of the trees life.

Can tree rings show temperature?

The color and width of tree rings can provide snapshots of past climate conditions. Because trees are sensitive to local climate conditions, such as rain and temperature, they give scientists some information about that areas local climate in the past.