What is characteristic of annual rings in trees?

Annual rings in trees are indicative of both the age of the tree and the growth conditions during each year of development. Each ring typically consists of two parts: the lighter part, which represents the growth in spring and early summer with faster growth rates, and the darker part, which indicates the slower growth that occurs in late summer and autumn. By counting these rings, one can determine the age of the tree. Additionally, variations in the width and density of each ring can provide insights into environmental factors, such as rainfall, temperature, and soil conditions, influencing the tree's growth during specific years. This makes annual rings a valuable tool for dendrochronology, the study of tree rings to understand past climates and ecological changes.