Cross-sectional analysis is analysis using data from the same point in time (static analysis). Cross sectional analysis is usually conducted in a field setting within a single, relatively homogeneous area. The purpose of cross-sectional analysis is to detect differences otherwise similar segments of cultural or social units that have been exposed to known influences which may have produced changes. Cross-sectional analysis also aims at discovering regularities in processes occurring overtime spans loner than the time allotted for investigation.