How does archaeology differ from cultural anthropology?

Archaeology is fundamentally concerned with understanding past human behavior through the analysis of material remains, such as artifacts, structures, and ecofacts. This branch of anthropology utilizes excavation and various analytical techniques to reconstruct historical lifestyles, social structures, and cultural practices of extinct societies. On the other hand, cultural anthropology primarily engages with contemporary societies, focusing on social practices, beliefs, and the daily lives of people through methods like participant observation and ethnographic studies.

The distinction lies in the focus of study: archaeology is specifically geared toward the study of past cultures through their material possessions, while cultural anthropology emphasizes understanding the living experiences and cultural dynamics of current populations. This makes the correct response clear, as it highlights the core methodologies and subject matter that set these two fields apart within anthropology.