What does absolute time typically measure?

Absolute time measures age in years, providing a concrete and quantifiable framework for understanding the chronological sequence of events or the age of archaeological findings. This concept is crucial in anthropology and archaeology as it helps researchers establish a timeline for human history and the development of cultures by assigning a specific numerical value to the passage of time.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of time or context that do not provide a definite age. For instance, measuring relations between artifacts explores their chronological or cultural connections rather than assigning a precise age. Similarly, age measured in days, while a smaller unit of time, is not commonly used in broad archaeological contexts where years offer more relevant insights into human activity and cultural development. Lastly, comparative growth stages concern the natural progression and differences among species or individuals, rather than establishing a straightforward timeframe. Thus, the definition and utility of absolute time in anthropology are best represented by the measurement of age in years.