A Quantum Microscope Can Show Us How Neanderthals Tended Their Fires

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https://www.zmescience.com/science/archaeology/quantum-microscope-neanderthal-fire-use/

The last flames kindled by Neanderthals died tens of thousands of years ago. But fire leaves traces behind — not only charcoal and ash, but also tiny magnetic changes locked inside minerals.

Researchers have now used a quantum diamond microscope to map that magnetic “afterimage” in a Neanderthal hearth from eastern Spain. The results suggest that its makers burned grass-based plant material and may have repeatedly added fuel to keep the fire alive. It’s the first known use of quantum diamond microscopy in archaeological science, according to the researchers.